Two weeks to the plenary assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), the Catholic Diocese of Ikot Ekpene is brimming with joy and anticipation as it prepares to host the august event. Scheduled to take place from September 11th to 19th, 2025, this historic gathering will bring together over 80 Catholic Bishops from across Nigeria, along with priests, consecrated men and women, government dignitaries, and thousands of Lay Faithful.
The Diocesan Retreat and Youth Development Centre, Nto Ekpu Ikot, Nko, Obot Akara LGA, Akwa Ibom State, will serve as the venue for this epoch-making occasion. According to Most Rev. Camillus Raymond Umoh, Bishop of Ikot Ekpene, the diocese is honored to welcome the entire episcopate of Nigeria, together with the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Michael Crotty. “We are honoured to welcome the entire episcopate of Nigeria, together with the Apostolic Nuncio, to the land of Ikot Ekpene,” Bishop Umoh said. “We believe it will be a spiritual fountain of renewal for our people and a sign of hope for our nation.”
The Assembly will feature rich spiritual and pastoral activities, including an Opening Ceremony on September 14th, 2025, and a Closing Ceremony on September 18th, 2025. The event coincides with the Jubilee Year of Hope (2025), adding deep spiritual significance to the gathering. Bishop Umoh highlighted the collaborative spirit of the diocese, noting the extraordinary zeal of priests, Religious, and Lay Faithful in embracing the task. “Our Priests, Religious, and Laity have embraced this responsibility with extraordinary dedication,” he said. “The love and goodwill of our people remind us that with God’s grace, no obstacle is insurmountable.”
The Plenary Assembly promises to be a memorable, gracefilled, and transformative milestone for the Diocese and the nation. As Bishop Umoh reflected, “This is more than an ecclesiastical meeting — it is a divine visitation in the Jubilee Year of Hope. We pray that this Assembly will strengthen the faith of our people, bring peace to our land, and inspire fresh energy for the mission of the Church in Nigeria.” With eager hearts, the faithful of Ikot Ekpene await the arrival of the Bishops, priests, and lay faithful from across Nigeria, knowing that this gathering will be a source of renewal and hope for the Church and the nation. To God be the glory!
