Catholic Church Rewards Academic and Behavioural Excellence in Abuja

The Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Wuye District, Abuja, has concluded the 2025 edition of its Prize for Academic and Behavioural Excellence, an annual initiative aimed at rewarding hard work, discipline, integrity, and scholastic achievement among children of the parish.

Prizes and certificates of recognition were formally presented to winners during a brief ceremony held after Sunday Mass.

Now in its third year, the initiative was introduced in 2023 to extend the traditional role of fathers in guiding their children beyond individual homes and into the wider parish community. The prize also serves as encouragement for children whose fathers may not be present, ensuring they receive mentorship and recognition within the Church family.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Jude Nnadozie, President of the CMO of St. Agnes Parish, stressed the need for continued guidance in children’s lives.

“As fathers, we shape our children by guiding their academic, moral, and spiritual growth, while also leading by example. Beyond our individual homes, the CMO makes us one fatherhood, and the parish our family. We must therefore extend the same guidance and leadership to build a stronger faith community. This annual exercise helps us achieve that,” he said.

Highlights of the 2025 edition included:

– Recognition of over 50 children who participated in the summer academic excellence program.

– A brief talk on Dyslexia, emphasizing that less-than-excellent academic performance does not define a child’s potential or future success.

– Presentation of prizes and certificates of excellence to three winners each from the primary, secondary, and tertiary categories.

– A symbolic toast to the 2025/2026 academic year, encouraging students to sustain their efforts and contribute meaningfully to society.

The event enjoyed full support from Rev. Fr. Godwin Oje, the Parish Priest, as well as the Parish Council and the Catholic Women Organisation, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to education, moral upbringing, and nation-building.

About the CMO

The Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) is the umbrella body of all adult Catholic men in parishes across Nigeria, with structures at parish, diocesan, provincial, and national levels.

The CMO fosters spiritual growth, moral discipline, and active participation in the Church, while also extending mentorship and support to families and children.

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