A New Dawn for CMO Benin City: Sir Victor Nkwuka-Ekwemalor Emerges as President Amid Calls for Unity and Visionary Leadership
In a landmark assembly marked by spiritual reflection and democratic transition, the Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) of the Archdiocese of Benin City elected a new executive council to pilot its affairs for the next four years. Held on Sunday, 25th January 2026, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ukhegie Street, the election saw Sir Victor N. Nkwuka-Ekwemalor (KSP) emerge as the Archdiocesan President, succeeding the dynamic administration of Sir Barrister Austin Odigie (KSP).
The atmosphere was set during the Special Thanksgiving Mass, where the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Solomon Uju (OSA), delivered a stirring homily centered on Christian unity. Drawing from the scriptures, Fr. Uju warned against the "darkness" of division and tribal sentiments, urging the lay faithful—including groups like the Legion of Mary and the Catholic Charismatic Renewal—to prioritize collaboration over competition. He emphasized that for the "great light" of Christ to manifest within the Archdiocese, leaders must be chosen based on competence and their ability to foster forgiveness and inclusivity.
In his valedictory address, the outgoing President, Barrister Austin Odigie, reflected on a fruitful four-year tenure dedicated to the core mission of evangelization. He highlighted the "chronicles of success" achieved by his executive team, most notably the recent recognition from the Archdiocesan School of Faith and Leadership for their impactful missionary work in rural communities. Barrister Odigie reminded the gathering that while his term had ended, the mission to spread the Gospel remains a continuous journey.
Taking the mantle of leadership, the newly elected President, Sir Victor Nkwuka-Ekwemalor, expressed his profound gratitude to the electorate and paid tribute to the foundations laid by his predecessors, Professor Umoru and Barrister Odigie. Acknowledging the "big shoes" left behind, Sir Victor unveiled a bold six-point vision focused on sustainability and welfare. He pledged to move the organization toward financial independence by seeking investment opportunities to reduce reliance on member dues. His administration also aims to prioritize the well-being of members through the introduction of a group insurance cover and the establishment of a dedicated Archdiocesan CMO Secretariat to ensure the continuity of records.
Furthermore, Sir Victor announced plans to modify and enhance the Family Summit, with a specific focus on increasing empowerment initiatives for CMO members. In a gesture of fraternal solidarity, he extended an olive branch to his co-contestants, declaring that "there are no losers" and inviting them to join his administration in forming an inclusive government for the benefit of all Catholic men.
The election process was transparently conducted by a high-powered provincial delegation led by the Provincial President, Mr. Steve A. Apologun, supported by the Immediate Past Provincial President, Barr. Obi Eregbuonye, Provincial Secretary Mr. Michael Iyiegbuniwe, and Provincial Welfare Officer Mr. Samson Igbinobaro, while the Archdiocesan CMO Chaplain, Very Rev Fr Dr Charles Omogiate, and the Archdiocesan Laity Council President, Mr Roland Osunde were also part of the administration of the electoral process.
Supporting Sir Victor in this new chapter is a diverse team of officers representing various deaneries: Vice President Okuagba Joseph (Abudu), General Secretary Akhaineme Greggy (Benin), Assistant Secretary Patrick O. Solomon (Igbobazuwa), Treasurer Osaretin B. Aisabawu (Igbobazuwa), Financial Secretary Ovuehor Sylvester Ulabor (Abudu), PRO Engr. Agbovu Aigbona (Benin), Provost Okhuegbe Felix B. (Abudu), and Legal Adviser Ogiah Francis, Esq. (Benin).
As the newly elected officers begin their four-year journey, the call remains clear: for all Catholic men to work in unity, attend meetings faithfully, and remain steadfast in bringing more souls to the Church.
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