Dame Felicia Onyeabo, LSM, DSG, until her call to eternal glory was a very active Catholic leader and devoted servant of God. Her remarkable journey as President of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) spanned from Abuja Archdiocese, to Abuja Province and ultimately to the National level, leaving an indelible mark on our Church.
Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to education led to the establishment of Cor Mariae College Abuja, a testament to her dedication to nurturing the boy child. Her membership as a Lady of St. Mulumba and her esteemed recognition as a Papal Knight (Dame of St. Gregory), reflects her exemplary service and devotion.
During my tenure as the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, I had the honour to work closely and fruitfully with Dame Felicia. I also remember with gratitude her numerous visits to the Chancery when I got transferred from Jos Archdiocese to Abuja Archdiocese, to discuss with me matters concerning the growth of our Archdiocese. My personal visits to pray with the family, availed me the opportunity to discover more and how deep-rooted our dear sister was in her Catholic faith with the entire family members.
As St. Augustine said, “The Church is not a physical building, but the assembly of people who believe in God.” Dame Felicia Onyeabo embodied this spirit, building up the Body of Christ through her selfless service.
May Dame Felicia’s extraordinary legacy continue to inspire us to live out our faith with courage and compassion. May she rest in eternal peace, and may we find comfort in the hope of the resurrection.
Kaigama is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Abuja.
