Archbishop Okolo undertook his post-graduate studies in Rome and obtained a doctorate in Canon Law, and a Diploma in Diplomatic Studies.
He entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See in 1990. He was incardinated in Nigeria’s Nnewi Diocese in November 2001.
Archbishop Okolo’s first mission as Apostolic Nuncio was in August 2008 when he was appointed to the Central African Republic (CAR), the same time he was appointed to represent the Holy Father in Chad.
The Archbishop who was assigned the Titular See of Novica has also represented the Holy Father in the Dominican Republic. He has served as Apostolic Delegate to Puerto Rico.
On May1, the Nigerian-born Catholic diplomat participated in the installation Mass for the new Local Ordinary of Galway and Kilmacduagh, Bishop Michael Gerard Duignan.
Speaking during the event that took place at Galway Cathedral, Bishop Brendan Kelly, the emeritus Bishop of Galway and Kilmacduagh Diocese, acknowledged with appreciation the ministry of Archbishop Okolo during his tenure as Apostolic Nuncio in Ireland.
It has been an “assuring and friendly presence" as Archbishop Okolo traveled “up and down the country, visiting all our dioceses and innumerable parishes,” Bishop Kelly said about the Nigerian Archbishop who has been the Apostolic Nuncio in Ireland since May 2017.
“We will miss you, but we assure you our prayers go with you as you assume your new mission in Prague,” the Irish Catholic Bishop who retired on February 11 told Archbishop Okolo.
Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.
