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At 71, Catholic Bishop in Nigeria Lauded for “unwavering commitment to promoting peace”

Credit: The Kukah Center

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Nigeria’s Sokoto Diocese has been lauded for his “unwavering” efforts to foster amicable relationships among the people of God in the West African nation.

In a tribute to the Nigerian Catholic Bishop on his 71st birthday on Thursday, August 31, officials of the Kukah Centre (TKC) say Bishop Kukah’s “enduring dedication to interfaith dialogue and inclusive governance has served as an inspirational beacon, fostering conversations among faith communities and public policy leaders.”

“As the nation comes together to celebrate the remarkable life of a visionary leader, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, on the auspicious occasion of his birthday, The Kukah Centre (TKC) humbly joins in expressing our deepest admiration and gratitude for his unwavering commitment to promoting peace, justice, and equality in Nigeria,” TKC officials say in the Thursday, August 31 tribute.

They add, “Your undeniable zeal in the realms of knowledge development and interfaith dialogue has illuminated a path towards unity and understanding among diverse communities.”

“His belief in collaborative political leadership, involving individuals, households, businesses, NGOs, and government entities, has driven positive change, nurturing an engaged citizenry that contributes to our nation's growth and stability,” TKC officials say about the Nigerian Catholic Bishop, who has been vocal about injustices, and advocated for good governance in Africa’s most populous nation.

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They go on to highlight incidents when he has manifested “exemplary leadership” and hunger for justice for Nigerians. 

“Bishop Kukah's pursuit of knowledge has been a foundation for his exemplary leadership. His pivotal role in the Oputa Panel on Human Rights Violations Commission, as Vicar-General of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kaduna, and as Convener of the National Peace Committee highlights his profound dedication to seeking justice, fostering peace, and advocating for the rights of every Nigerian citizen,” TKC officials say.

They continue, “Through his seminal works on Religion, Politics, and Power in Northern Nigeria, Religious Militancy and Self-Assertion in Nigeria, and Democracy and Civil Society in Nigeria, Bishop Kukah has left an indelible mark on our understanding of Nigeria's social and political landscape.”

TKC officials note that Bishop Kukah’s “tireless efforts in promoting peace and development in Nigeria have inspired countless hearts and ignited hope for a better future.”

“As you mark this special day, we extend our warmest wishes for happiness, good health, and the strength to continue your invaluable contributions to our nation,” TKC officials say, and implore, “May your legacy of compassion and dedication live on, guiding us towards a more harmonious and prosperous Nigeria.”

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Born on 31 August 1952, Bishop Kukah was ordained a Priest in December 1976.

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.