Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The current number of Cardinals in Nigeria.
- Why Intersociety believes Nigeria needs more representation.
- The challenges facing the Catholic Church in Nigeria.
- A potential candidate for the position.
Why Nigeria Needs Another Cardinal
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) is making a strong case for the Catholic Church to appoint an additional serving Cardinal in Nigeria. Their reasoning? To strengthen the Church’s presence and leadership in the country.
Currently, Nigeria has four Cardinals, but three are over 80 years old and retired: Francis Cardinal Arinze (92), Anthony Cardinal Okogie (88) and John Cardinal Onaiyekan (81), leaving only Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, who is currently 62 years. Intersociety argues that Nigeria, with the second-largest Catholic population in Africa (after the Democratic Republic of Congo), deserves more than one active Cardinal.
A Call to Action for the New Pope
Intersociety is congratulating the newly appointed Pope Robert Francis Prevost (Pope Leo XIV), urging him to focus on entrusting the leadership of the Catholic Church in Nigeria to courageous and dedicated Bishops and Priests. The group highlights the serious attacks on church members, buildings, and schools by Islamic groups.
Intersociety claims some leaders within the Catholic Church in Nigeria are too focused on “materialistic evangelism,” hindering the Church’s growth. They stress the need for leaders who will prioritize the defense of the Christian faith.
The Dangers Faced by Catholic Priests in Nigeria
The situation is dire. In the first five months of 2025 alone, at least 14 Catholic priests have been abducted in Nigeria. One was even killed by these violent groups. This shocking statistic underscores the dangers faced by religious leaders in the country.
A Potential Candidate: Bishop Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe
Intersociety is specifically recommending Bishop Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Benue State, as a strong candidate for Cardinal.
Why Bishop Anagbe?
- He is within the energetic age of 60.
- He has been a vocal advocate against the massacre of Christians by Fulani Jihadists in Benue State.
- He has bravely spoken out despite threats to his life and freedom.
Bishop Anagbe himself has stated that his Diocese of Makurdi has lost over 14 parishes to Fulani Jihadists in recent times. Intersociety also suggests Rev Father Remigius Ihyula should also be honored for his courage and dedication.
Warning to the Pope: Be Wary of Self-Serving Leaders
The group also warns the new Pope and College of Cardinals to be cautious of individuals from Nigeria’s South-East region who are seeking Papal Knighthood. They allege that some governors in the region are more loyal to those who oppose the Church than to their own faith.
The Impact of Violence on the Catholic Church in Nigeria
Intersociety claims that violence has significantly impacted the Catholic Church in Nigeria. They estimate that the growth of the Catholic population and the defense of Christian faith have been reduced by about 30% in the last 16 years. Several dioceses have been uprooted or threatened due to the actions of groups like Boko Haram and Fulani bandits.
They cite examples in Kaduna, Plateau, and Benue States, as well as Minna and Kontagora in Niger State, where Christian communities have been displaced and taken over.
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