By Dennis Udoma, KSJI
The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, received a rousing welcome on Saturday at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, as the Knights of St. John International, Uyo Grand Commandery, mounted a full military guard of honour in his honour.
The colourful reception, led by the Grand President of the Order, Brig. General Uduakabasi Isobara, KSJI, was part of activities marking the arrival of the Papal Ambassador for the 2025 Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), scheduled to hold in the Diocese of Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
Dressed in their resplendent ceremonial regalia, the knights formed an impressive guard of honour for the Nuncio, who represents the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, in Nigeria.
Speaking at the airport, Brig. General Isobara described the occasion as “a moment of pride and spiritual duty,” stressing that the knights’ participation was both symbolic and a demonstration of loyalty to the Church and the papacy.
Archbishop Crotty, visibly moved by the warm welcome, expressed deep gratitude to the Knights and the local Church in Akwa Ibom State, noting that their hospitality reflects the spirit of unity within the Nigerian Catholic community.
The 2025 Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, which begins in Ikot Ekpene, will bring together Catholic prelates from across the country to deliberate on issues of faith, evangelisation, social justice, and national development. The conference is also expected to reaffirm the Church’s commitment to promoting unity, peace, and moral values in Nigeria.
