By Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has appointed Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo as the new Secretary General (SG) of its headquarters, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN).
He is taking over from Fr. Zacharia Samjumi.
Until his appointment, Fr. Banjo served as the Deputy Secretary General and the Director of Pastoral Affairs Department of the CSN.
Born on August 9, 1971, the well-travelled gentleman was ordained a priest on July 18, 1998, for the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode.
Back in his diocese, he held various positions, including Judicial Vicar of the Ijebu-Ode Diocese, Director of Family and Human Life Department, and Chaplain of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.
The new CSN SG is a seasoned canonist of the Church who brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
His impressive curriculum vitae reveals a distinguished academic and pastoral career as he holds a Doctorate in Canon Law (J.C.D.), Licentiate in Canon Law (J.C.L.), Masters in Government and Politics with specialization in International Relations, and a Diploma in International Law and Diplomacy, among others.
As the Secretary General of the CSN, Fr. Banjo is expected to provide meaningful leadership and guidance to the Secretariat, which serves as the administrative and coordinating arm of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
The office of the Secretary General is esteemed and critical to the general welfare and progress of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, as it requires strong leadership, administrative, and communication skills.
The Secretary General serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the CSN, responsible for managing the various resources of CBCN, implementing the resolutions of the body of Nigerian Bishops, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Secretariat.
With his rich experience and expertise, Fr. Banjo is well-equipped to handle the challenges and responsibilities of his new office.
The Catholic Bishops of Nigeria and the entire Catholic community in Nigeria and beyond look forward to his service and guidance in promoting the mission and values of the Church.
In a related development, Fr. Peter Babangida Audu takes over from Fr. Uche Obodoechina as the Director of Church & Society and the Executive Secretary of Caritas Nigeria while Fr. Lawrence Emehel takes over from Fr. Joseph Nomhwange, SMA, as the Director of Mission & Dialogue.
Also, Fr. Augustine Fasiku has joined CSN Management as the Director of Pastoral affairs, taking over from Fr. Michael Banjo.
All the Directors, experts in their different fields, are expected to work in close collaboration with the new SG to achieve the vision of CBCN for the Catholic Church in Nigeria
(vitalnewsngr.com)
