It was indeed praises galore from top Nigerian dignitaries as the Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese marked his 80th birthday in a grand ceremony that took place in Abuja last Thursday.

Several of Nigerian top government officials, past and present, religious leaders, traditional rulers and industrialists who were personally present at the occasion took turn to celebrate the clergy man who had dedicated almost his entire life to the service of God.

Showering encomium on the person of John Cardinal Onaiyekan, President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio described Onaiyekan as a true icon of faith and leadership with a remarkable life and legacies.

Akpabio stated further, “We have gathered to honour a man who has dedicated his entire life to the service of others; a man whose unwavering commitment to justice, compassion, and unity has touched countless lives and inspired generations.

“As we reflect upon the extraordinary journey of His Eminence, we are reminded of the power of resilience and determination.

“Through his unfaltering faith and dedication, he became a beacon of hope, guiding his flock with love, compassion and unwavering integrity.

“Cardinal Onaiyekan’s leadership and ministry have been marked by a resolute pursuit of justice and equality.

“In the face of injustice he has been a tireless advocate for the marginalised and the voiceless,’’ Akpabio said at a ceremony to mark Onaiyekan’s birthday.

“It is not just his actions that inspire us; it is his words that resonate in our hearts.

“His Eminence possesses a rare gift of eloquence and a profound ability to unite people from all walks of life.

“His words have the power to heal; to bridge divides, and to ignite the flames of hope in even the darkest of times.

“His sermons have touched the hearts of millions, reminding us of our shared humanity and the inherent dignity that resides within every one of us,’’ Akpabio said.

In his own part, a former Nigeria Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon while welcoming the Archbishop emeritus to the club of 80 and above, described Onaiyekan as an exceptional religious leader. He noted that Onaiyekan is a man of faith who has worked tirelessly for inter faith unity of the country and wished him many more years in good health.

Gowon reminded Nigerians to reflect on the work of a great person as Onyaiyekan and to emulate his exemplary work toward building a greater Nation.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the occasion, Dumo Lulu-Briggs described Onyaiyekan as a true Icon worthy of celebration. Lulu-Briggs said that such a man who has championed religious tolerance and peace is worthy to be celebrated and emulated by all especially younger Nigerians. He called on Nigerians to emulate the teachings and values of Onyaiyekan for greater unity and peace among religions. The book titled, “Religion and Peace Post Retirement Reflection of John Cardinal Onaiyekan on Interfaith Dialogue,” edited by Rev Fr. George Ehusan was reviewed by prof. Jibrin Ibrahim.

A book titled “Religion for Peace” was also presented as part of the activities to mark the birthday celebration

Born at Kabba in now Kogi state on January 29, 1944, Onaiyekan was Archbishop of Abuja from 1994 to 2019 and was ordained a cardinal on November 24, 2012, by Pope Benedict XVI.