Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has congratulated Francis Cardinal Arinze on his 60th Episcopal Anniversary, describing him as a “living witness to faith and renewal” in the Catholic Church.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Obi reflected on the Cardinal’s historic contributions to the Church, recalling that Arinze was consecrated a bishop in 1965 at the age of 32—making him the youngest Catholic bishop in the world at the time. He later became the youngest archbishop and the first African to lead the Archdiocese of Onitsha.
“I joyfully felicitate with His Eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze, the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, and indeed the Universal Church, as he marks his 60th Episcopal Anniversary,” Obi wrote.
He also lauded the Cardinal’s extensive service both in Nigeria and at the Vatican, where he held prominent roles, including Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
“As one of the remaining Council Fathers of Vatican II, he stands as a living witness to the Church’s renewal in the modern world. His voice of wisdom and maturity continues to illuminate the path of the Church, while his exemplary life remains an inspiration to younger generations,” Obi added.
Cardinal Arinze, now 91, is one of Nigeria’s most revered religious figures, known for his theological depth, global influence within the Catholic hierarchy, and decades-long commitment to faith, unity, and service.
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