● Ferdy Agu
South East Governors – Peter Mbah of Enugu, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, and others are set to join numerous dignitaries at the centenary celebration of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu, a milestone event that kicks off tomorrow at the historic institution. This landmark celebration highlights a century of spiritual formation, academic excellence, and community engagement by the seminary.
Expected guests include Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, former Old Anambra State Governor, Senator Jim Nwobodo, and past Governors of Anambra and Enugu States, Willie Obiano and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, respectively. The presence of these prominent figures underscores the seminary’s significance and influence in Nigeria and beyond.
Addressing the media in Enugu, Very Rev. Fr. Albert Ikpenwa, the Rector of Bigard Memorial Seminary, outlined the lineup of distinguished speakers, including renowned Professor Bart Nnaji, who will deliver a keynote address on Friday, November 15. Rev. Fr. Ikpenwa noted that the involvement of such esteemed personalities reflects the seminary’s wide-reaching impact and the support it has garnered from leaders across various fields.
One of the event’s highlights will be the attendance of Francis Cardinal Arinze, Cardinal Bishop of Velletri-Segni in the Vatican, who, alongside bishops from the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, formators, and seminarians, will officially launch the centenary ceremony this Sunday. This spiritual commencement embodies the seminary’s dedication to its mission of nurturing future leaders and faithful servants of the Church.
Bigard Memorial Seminary traces its roots back to 1924, when Irish Bishop Joseph Shanaham established Saint Paul’s Seminary in Igbariam, Anambra State. After several relocations, the seminary settled permanently in Enugu in 1951, growing to become an institution known for producing four cardinals, 14 archbishops, 37 bishops, and thousands of priests serving worldwide. This rich legacy places Bigard as a cornerstone of the Catholic Church in Africa.
Rev. Fr. Ikpenwa also highlighted that Bigard has played a pivotal role in training clergy across West Africa, including countries like Cameroon, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. Not all of its alumni pursued the priesthood, however. Many found their callings in secular fields, excelling in diverse professions and contributing to society as successful leaders and citizens.
Pope Francis will be represented by a delegate from Rome, signifying the event’s global importance. The centenary’s chief host, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, alongside bishops from across the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, will guide the spiritual proceedings and celebrate this landmark achievement with the congregation.
The 10-day centenary event, running from November 10 to 21, promises an array of activities celebrating Bigard’s achievements. In addition to the inaugural Mass and alumni reunion, the seminary will host symposiums, quiz competitions, cultural and musical performances, a football novelty match, and the blessing of a new centenary hostel, recently constructed to mark the occasion.
The seminary’s role as a nurturing ground extends beyond seminarians to its lay staff, who play crucial roles in the institution’s operations. Speaking at the press conference, Rev. Fr. Ikpenwa expressed gratitude for lay staff members who have dedicated years of service to Bigard. “Our centenary is not just a celebration for our clergy; it’s a moment for everyone who has contributed to Bigard’s mission,” Ikpenwa stated, reinforcing the seminary’s commitment to inclusivity and appreciation for all members of its community.
The celebrations will culminate in a Jubilee Mass and the ordination of new deacons, symbolizing the seminary’s continuous dedication to nurturing the next generation of spiritual leaders. This final event will underscore Bigard’s vision for the future, blending tradition with modernity to meet the Church’s evolving needs.
As Bigard Memorial Seminary commemorates a century of service, the institution stands as a beacon of faith, resilience, and transformative education. The upcoming events, centered on both spiritual and communal festivities, underscore Bigard’s influence across generations, marking it as a pillar in the history and future of Catholic education and leadership in Nigeria and Africa. GMTNewsng
