The Catholic Bishop of Zaria Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Habila Daboh, has praised the efforts of the presbytery, religious community, and lay members while reflecting on the legacies of his predecessor in a message commemorating the 25th anniversary.
In a statement dated Tuesday, 3 March 2026, Bishop Daboh, 55, stated, “With a dedicated presbyterate, religious, and laity, we press on gradually but steadily,” while praying, “May God continue to bind us together in love and lead us to the promised kingdom, where we shall bask in His eternal glory.”
“Twenty-five years ago, unimaginable joy and jubilation filled the hearts of our forebears as the name Zaria shone brightly, not only in the Church in Nigeria but across Africa and the world,” the prelate maintained,
The second indigenous Bishop of Zaria underscored that “the pioneer Bishop’s legacy continues to inspire us, having faithfully planted and nurtured the seed in this ecclesiastical circumscription,” while praying, “May his soul rest in peace.”
“Today, under the guidance of our current unworthy shepherd, and giving the large shoes of his predecessor, we strive to remain united and faithful.
Motorcycles donated to Catechists by Bishop Habila Daboh. Credit: Sonnen Jerome Julian Tarungwa.
“Happy Silver Jubilee to our dear diocese and to all of us. May the celebration echo the joy of our founding and inspire us towards greater love and service.”
In a related development, Bishop Daboh donated motorcycles to Catechists in the Diocese to ease their pastoral work.
Some members of the laity who took to social media expressed their commendation and appreciation to the Bishop for the kind gesture.
Hassana Margaret Yakubu wrote, “Congratulations to them all, may they use these bikes to keep spreading the gospel of Christ, and may the Lord continue to multiply [resources for] the Bishop to do more in Jesus name.”
On his part, Bartholomew Ushahemba Iorwar Ambe stated that “It reminded me of when I was serving my people as a Catholic Church leader, how transportation was a measure obstacle to serving my people well,” adding “May God bless you, your lordship.”
After its canonical erection by Pope John Paul II on 6 December 2000, Zaria Diocese was inaugurated in 2001 with the appointment of Bishop George Jonathan Dodo as its first Bishop.
The pioneer Bishop, Dodo, who tragically died on 8 July 2022 at the age of 66 following a brief illness, was buried at Christ the King Cathedral, Zaria.
