KSJl Benin Grand Raises 14th Anniversary Committee

By Simeon OSAJIE

To ensure a seamless and benefitting ceremony, the Benin Grand Commandery, Knights of St. John International (KSJI) has set up a nine member committee for the celebration of the 14th anniversary of Benin Grand, and reunion of KSJI members of Edo descent.

The committee members were announced at the weekend by the Grand President of Benin Grand Commandery, Sir Chris Umogbai.

In a statement signed by the Benin Grand Secretary, Sir Patrick Ihayere, the Committee will be chaired by Sir Solomon Obeakemeh, while Sir Paschal Isele will serve as its secretary. Other members of the committee include; Lady Perpetual Uhomoibhi, Sir Alexander Oriafo, and Sir Frank Idiake, Sir Godfrey Simate, Lady Edna Ugbebor, Lady Sarah Osakwe and Sir Henry Ogiefa.

Meanwhile, a Public Relations expert, Sir Peter Osamgbi will serve as a consultant to the committee.

Speaking on the crucial role of the anniversary’s committee, Sir Umogbai charged its members to come up with a realistic plan geared towards organising a memorable celebration, that will reflect the KSJI’s unique tradition of charity, evangelization, fraternity, and to work out a reward for outstanding KSJI members of Edo descent.

He further stressed: “this celebration is intentionally geared towards bringing our people together to serve God in unison and deepen our fraternity. This celebration shall bring KSJI members across the world together, at the same time, in Benin City.”

Giving his nod to the celebration, the Supreme Subordinate (National) President of KSJI, Professor Remy Uche, congratulated Benin Grand on attaining 14 years, and urged them to continue to positively project KSJI and defend the Mother Church.

In the same vein, the Supreme Subordinate Ladies Auxiliary President, Noble Sister Chinwe Mgbajiaka, opines that this celebration will further strengthen the resolve of Benin Grand Members in rededicating themselves to working for God and defending the Christian faith as presented by the Catholic Church.

KSJI Benin Grand Commandery and Ladies Auxiliary covers Benin Archdiocese, Auchi and Uromi Dioceses, in Edo State. The Commandery has been actively involved in many charitable activities in the Catholic Church.

KSJI is a family apostolate charged with the defence of the Roman Catholic faith and was established in Nigeria in 1976. It has a membership of over 18,000 Knights and their Ladies in Nigeria. The Order exists in the USA, England, Germany, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as in other African countries like, Kenya, Ghana, Togo, Sierra Leone and Liberia.