The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has advised couples to uphold tolerance, patience, and forgiveness as essential virtues for a lasting marriage.
Governor Otti gave the charge on Sunday December 7, 2025 during the Golden Jubilee celebration of Sir Leonard Ikeotuonye Okoye (KSJI, KSSG) and Lady Alice Nneka Okoye (LAUX, KSJI), held at St. Ambrose Catholic Parish, Ogbor-Hill, Aba.
In his remarks, Governor Otti described 50 years of marriage as a remarkable milestone that demands mutual endurance and deliberate commitment.
“Fifty years in matrimony is not a joke. It represents years of tolerance, patience, acceptance, and a determined decision to remain together,” he said.
He emphasized that disagreements are a natural part of every relationship, noting that “no two persons, not even twins, can live together for long without misunderstandings.” He commended the celebrants—Sir Leo, fondly known as Uduakomiri, and his wife—for sustaining their union for five decades.
The Governor also revealed that he recently marked his own 32nd wedding anniversary two months ago and prayed that he and his wife would celebrate their 50th anniversary in 18 years’ time.
He further urged couples to remain faithful to their vows and expressed gratitude that the Catholic Church upholds marriage as a lifelong commitment, disallowing divorce.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Sir John O. Udeagbala, MD/CEO of J.O. Udeagbala Holdings and former Mayor of Aba North LGA, appreciated all guests—especially the Governor—for honouring the celebration. He described Sir Leo as a humble and God-fearing man whose life of service is worthy of emulation.
In his homily, the officiating minister, His Lordship, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, delivered a message titled “The True Conversion That Brings Salvation.”
He reminded couples that God will hold them accountable for the upbringing of their children and urged families to be conscious of their conduct before their children, who constantly observe and learn from them.
Bishop Okoye stressed the importance of tolerance, endurance, and patience in family life, noting that these virtues flow naturally where genuine love exists. He added that true conversion is the foundation of salvation and likened God’s relationship with believers to the commitment seen in marriage.
He encouraged families to seek renewal through the Holy Spirit to sustain lasting unions.
Highlights of the ceremony included the exchange of marriage vows by the celebrants, presentation of the Pope’s Papal Blessing, and presentation of a commemorative picture frame.
