NIGERIA: ‘I cannot thank you enough’

• Bishop thanks ACN for reaching out to hundreds of families displaced by persecution

A Nigerian bishop committed to helping families fleeing some of the country’s worst persecution and conflict has marked the anniversary of his ordination by offering a heartfelt message of thanks to a leading Catholic charity.

In the decade since his episcopal ordination, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of Makurdi has witnessed an explosion in the number of displaced families escaping extremists including Fulani herdsmen who have seized vast swathes of lands, forcing entire communities to flee their homes.

In response, the bishop set up an emergency education programme for more than 400 children – both boys and girls – getting them back to school, off the streets and away from the threat of child prostitution, child labour, human trafficking and drug addiction.

Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has supported the project alongside help for other vital programmes supporting persecuted priests, Sisters, Mass stipends, Christian education and catechesis.

In his letter to ACN, marking his 10th anniversary as bishop as well as his 30th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood, Bishop Wilfred wrote: “Since I became bishop, I have been confronted with the sad reality of the displacement of thousands of persons within my diocese.

“There are areas completely taken over by herders and for years the education of school age in these areas has been completely truncated.

“Sensing the need to do something about this sad situation, I initiated the Education in Emergency fund to put children of school age back to school so as to secure their future in the midst of the present hopeless situation.”

He added: “I am deeply grateful to Aid to the Church in Need for all the help we have received not only in the area of education support for the displaced populations in our diocese but also most importantly in the advocacy work that has placed our plight to the fore.

“ACN’s staff who work in this area have been tireless as they continue to make the international community aware of the hardship and sufferings our people are undergoing.

“I cannot thank you and your staff at the ACN enough for all the help we have received over the years.”

In response, Regina Lynch, Executive President of ACN (International), wrote to the bishop: “You have been bishop in a time of great suffering for your people.

“Many have been killed or displaced but thankfully the Church is there to bring solace and to strengthen them in their Faith despite the crosses they must bear.

“You have been – and continue to be – the Good Shepherd, who never abandons his sheep.

“You have shown great courage and fortitude in leading them through these difficult times and in giving them a voice by sharing your testimony with politicians and the international community.”