A former chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State Branch, Dr. Pius Ade-Ojo, has been decorated as a Papal Knight in the Order of Saint Sylvester by the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.
A Papal Knight, which is a distinguished award of chivalry by Pope Francis, is saddled with the responsibility of continuing to serve the Church and their communities, upholding the values of faith, charity, and service.
With this title, Dr. Ade-Ojo will have the honor of wearing distinctive insignia and regalia, participating in special ceremonies and events with special recognition within the Catholic Church and wider society.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the investiture in Ado-Ekiti, Ade-Ojo described the award as a call to service, ensuring there is no dearth of responsibilities within church activities.
While thanking his family and friends for their support, he pledged to use the title for the progress and development of humankind.
“This is the day the Lord has made,” Ade-Ojo said. “I cannot but give honor to God for making this possible. For whom much is given, much is expected. I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity to be decorated as a Papal Knight.”
“This is a call to service; it’s not just a title,” he added. “I want to appreciate my family members for their support all the time.”
In his sermon, Pope Francis, represented by the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, urged Ade-Ojo to see the honor as a call to service. He also urged the congregation not to relent in their prayers for the development of the country.
Ade-Ojo is among 36 individuals honored with the awards in orders of chivalry by the Pope, while the program was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.