The Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria (CWON) has inaugurated its new national Executives, with Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu, Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Jos reminding them that leadership in the Church is a call to serve, not to be served. Speaking during the General Executives Meeting and Handing Over Ceremony, held from March 20 to 23, 2025, at the Sacred Heart Pastoral Centre in Jos, Archbishop Audu emphasised that leadership in the Church is a privilege rather than an entitlement.
He urged the new leaders to follow Christ’s example of selfless service, referencing Jesus’ words: “I came not to be served, but to serve.” “Any position you occupy in the Church is an invitation from God to serve,” he said. “God’s work can be done without human involvement, but He chooses to use people as instruments for His purpose. It is only a privilege that He wants to use us, and you should remember this constantly.” During the event, Hon. (Mrs.) Elizabeth Olayinka Sonubi from Ijebu-Ode Diocese, Lagos Ecclesiastical Province, was formally installed as CWON’s new national president. Archbishop Audu congratulated her and encouraged her to see her new role as a mission to serve all Catholic women across Nigeria.
“You are there to serve, not to be served,” he reminded her. “Take care of the women under your leadership. Your title makes you the number one Catholic woman in Nigeria, but like Jesus, you are called to lead with humility and dedication.” He urged her to extend her care beyond her own province and ensure the well-being of Catholic women in all dioceses nationwide. Archbishop Audu also advised the new executives and members not to neglect their families while fulfilling their Church responsibilities. He described the family as the “domestic Church” and emphasised the need for balance between service to the Church and dedication to their homes.
“The first responsibility of every woman is to her family,” he said. “Balancing church service with family life is crucial for a successful and fulfilling leadership experience.” The Archbishop called on all Catholic women to support their new leaders and work together for the growth of the organisation. He underscored the sacred role of women in creation, noting that their ability to bear children makes them co-creators with God. He encouraged them to embrace their leadership roles with faith, perseverance, and prayer. Outgoing CWON National President, Dame Mary Asibi Gonsum, expressed gratitude for a successful tenure. She thanked Archbishop Audu and other Church leaders for their support and officially welcomed her successor, urging her to build on the foundation laid by previous leaders.
She also conveyed the greetings of the Bishop Chair of Laity, who was absent due to personal bereavement but assured the women of his prayers. The event featured speeches, reports, and deliberations on CWON’s future, with the official handover taking place in the presence of National Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Linus Huabo, and National Sr. Adviser, Rev. Sr. Assumpta Taiwo. This leadership transition aligns with CWON’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its mission and support system.
In January 2025, CWON leaders paid a courtesy visit to the new Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, demonstrating solidarity with the broader Church leadership. During the visit, Dame Gomsum emphasised the importance of seeking divine guidance in leadership roles. As CWON embarks on a new chapter, Archbishop Audu’s message remains clear – leadership in the Church is a sacred duty that calls for humility, faith, and unwavering dedication.
