The wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti,joined Catholic women around the world to mark the 2026 Mother’s Day celebration.
Speaking during a church service at Mater Dei Cathedral in Umuahia, the state capital, Mrs. Otti called on mothers to use the occasion to cultivate love within their families, oppose evil in their communities, and inspire others in society.
Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa, Mrs. Otti said that this year’s theme, “True Love in Action,” reminds everyone that motherhood is a cherished gift and a divine calling that requires love, sacrifice, and dedication.
She described the Catholic women’s initiative to invest in building a pilgrimage centre intended to host conferences and teach the Word of God as timely and commendable.
The Governor’s wife also advised women to raise awareness and stand against all forms of gender-based violence. She emphasized that Governor Otti’s administration recognizes the vital role women play in nation-building, while also encouraging men to support and love their wives.
In his sermon, the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Reverend Michael Kalu Ukpong, said the Church celebrates women with love, describing them as mothers who nurture their children and shape destinies.
Bishop Ukpong called on those who have not taken time to celebrate mothers to retrace their steps, noting that the day presents a perfect opportunity to do so.
In her message, the President of the Catholic Women Organisation, Dr. Lillian Obikpe, stated that the focus of every mother should be on raising children to become ambassadors of Christ in the future.
She added that while they continue to pray for the Church and the unity of humanity, they also call on the government and other concerned citizens to support their dream project of completing the pilgrimage centre.
