CMON Ondo Diocese Honours Ambassadors of Responsible Fatherhood
In a heartwarming celebration of integrity, leadership, and Christian virtue, the Catholic Men Organization of Nigeria (CMON), Catholic Diocese of Ondo, honoured a distinguished group of men as Ambassadors of Responsible Fatherhood.
The prestigious event took place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the elegant Catholic Event Centre within the serene grounds of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure.
The ceremony, graced by esteemed members of the clergy and laity, radiated a profound sense of purpose and gratitude. At its heart was a tribute to the vital role of fathers in shaping families, communities and the Church.
In his welcome address, Mr. Ambrose Omotoye Ogedengbe, President of CMON in the Diocese, reflected with pride on his journey in service. Having dedicated 17 years to public education before his voluntary retirement, Mr. Ogedengbe served as Principal of Citadel College, Ikare, and was later reappointed Director of the institution in recognition of his exceptional leadership.
“This Programme,” he said, “is one of the initiatives I introduced for the upliftment of our people. My greatest joy today is the presence of our Lord Bishop at this event—a gesture I deeply cherish.”
He went on to commend the efforts of the zonal executives who, through careful selection and character assessment, identified worthy recipients of the fatherhood honours. “We asked for men of impeccable character,” he explained, “and conducted thorough background checks to ensure these awards truly reflect virtue and responsibility.”
Mr. Ogedengbe also highlighted several impactful projects undertaken under his leadership, including the rotational hosting of CMON meetings, generous donations to victims of the tragic St. Francis Church attack in Owo, and the ongoing refurbishment of the organization’s long-abandoned bus—now being restored to its original condition.
One of the memorable moments of the event was the rendition of the CMON anthem, a composition gifted by a respected elder of the organization. “It’s a symbol of our unity, our values, and our shared mission,” Ogedengbe remarked.
In his closing remarks, he charged all members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the spiritual and social upliftment of the Church and society. “Let us continue to be shining examples of Christian fatherhood, working tirelessly for the advancement of God’s kingdom,” he urged.
Award recipients, including High Chief Ndneli, Mr. Anthony Okafor, Mr. Samuel Okoke Njaka Vincent, Mr. Paul Taye Akinsete of St. Patrick, Ondo, Sir Olu Fasipe, Sir Victor Olaniyi of the Knights of St. Mulumba, Mr. Raphael Arogundade from Oka-Akoko, Engr. Bankole Abiodun from Owo, and Mr. Akinyemi Emmanuel of St. Francis, Owo, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition.
Speaking with The Democrat News Magazine, several honourees described the award as a divine reminder of their calling to exemplify fatherhood. Many dedicated the honour to God, their parents, and mentors who had guided them on life’s journey.
“This award will always be a sacred reminder of the grace we’ve received,” one awardee noted. “We pledge to uphold the virtues it represents and to inspire others to walk this noble path.”
With renewed passion and solemn promises, the honourees vowed to mobilize more men into CMON, to serve faithfully, and to carry the banner of responsible Christian fatherhood into every corner of society .