Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu, Archbishop Martins Lead Tributes as Cardinal Okogie Celebrates 90th Birthday

                 

                           Gov. Sanwo-olu                     

Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins

Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, have paid glowing tributes to the Emeritus 

Arc hbishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, as he celebrated his 90th birthday, 60th anniversary of priestly ordination, and 55th anniversary of episcopal ordination.

The triple celebration, held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, attracted religious leaders, government officials, and faithful from across the country who gathered to honour the renowned Catholic cleric for his decades of service to God, the Church, and humanity.

In a goodwill message delivered by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Cardinal Okogie as an iconic religious leader whose life has been marked by selfless service, courage, and dedication to nation-building.

The governor commended the Cardinal's immense contributions to the spiritual, social, and moral development of Lagos State and Nigeria, noting that his unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the welfare of ordinary citizens has earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Sanwo-Olu also praised Cardinal Okogie for consistently speaking truth to power and serving as a moral compass for society. He prayed for God's continued grace, good health, and strength upon the Cardinal and reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's commitment to partnering with the Church in promoting moral values, social harmony, and human development.

Speaking during the celebration, Archbishop Alfred Martins called on Nigerian leaders to intensify efforts toward ensuring peace and security across the country. He urged government authorities to adequately equip and motivate security operatives while encouraging Nigerians to continue praying for the nation and its leaders.

Archbishop Martins described Cardinal Okogie as a devoted shepherd whose life reflects unwavering commitment to Christ and the Church. He noted that the celebration was not only a milestone event but also a recognition of a life faithfully dedicated to the service of God and humanity.

In his homily, the Archbishop Emeritus of Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze, praised Cardinal Okogie for his steadfast faith, prophetic voice, and unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and the poor. He prayed for God's continued strength and grace upon the Cardinal as he continues to serve as an inspiration to the Church in Nigeria.

The celebration highlighted Cardinal Okogie's enduring legacy as one of Nigeria's most respected religious leaders, whose contributions to the Church and society continue to impact generations.