The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has honoured His Royal Highness (HRH) Eze Dr. Chukwudi Okparaku, the Eze Ndi Igbo of Abaranje/Okerube, with the St. Thomas More Medal of Honour.
While presenting the Medal to HRH Eze Okparaku, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Dr. Adewale Martins, said that that the honour was given to HRH Okparaku “In Recognition of Your Outstanding Contributions and Service Towards the Growth of the Archdiocese of Lagos.”
Speaking after the rececption of the award, HRH Eze Okparaku said:
“Today, at the Holy Cross Cathedral, I received a prestigious award of recognition from the Archbishop of Lagos.
“This esteemed honor acknowledges my unwavering commitment to utilizing my time, talents, and resources for the growth and prosperity of the Archdiocese, Isolo Deanery, and my parish, St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, Abaranje Ikotun, Lagos.
“I humbly dedicate this award to my father, High Chief L.N. Okparaku, who instilled in me the values of trusting and serving the Lord our God.
“I extend my sincerest gratitude to my wife, Ezinne Ugoeze Chizoba Okparaku, and our children, who have selflessly supported me throughout my endeavors.
“I also appreciate the members of my parish who supported me during my tenure as Vice Chairman of the Church Council, the Catholic Men Organization of my parish, and the CMO Isolo Deanary.
“I am committed to continuing my faith journey, shining brightly as an instrument of encouragement to fellow lay faithful. To God be the glory.”
Newsmen reports that the “St. Thomas More Medal of Honour,” a popular award in many academic and professional settings, is named after the renowned English humanist, statesman, and Catholic saint, Sir Thomas More.
The award is given to individuals who embody his virtues, such as integrity, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to faith and justice, often in the fields of law, politics, or humanistic studies.
