The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, has urged women to live lives they will be proud of in the future, challenging them to become guardians of human dignity, peace and positive societal change.
Bishop Dunia gave the charge during the annual Provincial Conference of the Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria (CWON), Benin Province, held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Afasho/Afowa, Uzairue, in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking during the Pontifical High Mass that opened the four-day conference, the bishop reflected on the biblical story of the prodigal son, saying the elder son’s resentment over his father’s acceptance of his younger brother mirrors the attitude of leaders who expect recognition or rewards for serving humanity.
He reminded the congregation that God judges the intentions of the heart and rewards every individual according to their deeds.
Highlighting the unique role of mothers, the cleric described women as the foundation of families, saying they nurture, guide and shape children from infancy into responsible members of society, regardless of their material circumstances.
He urged women to use their influence in their homes, the Church and society to make decisions that promote justice, peace and a better future for coming generations.
Welcoming participants to the conference, the Provincial President of CWON, Benin Province, Dr Lady Perekebina Berezi, described the 2026 conference theme, “Magnifica Humanitas: Women as Guardians of Dignity and Peace,” as timely in the face of Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
She said the theme reflects the inherent greatness of every human person created in the image and likeness of God.
In his keynote address, the Chancellor of Auchi Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Sylvester Attashie, called on women to protect their children from every form of danger, insisting that “a woman of dignity is a woman of peace.”
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The conference attracted more than 3,000 women from the six dioceses that make up the Benin Province: Benin Archdiocese, Warri, Issele-Uku, Bomadi, Auchi and Uromi.
The event featured award presentations to outstanding men and women, the organisation’s annual general assembly, a Rosary procession and a gala night featuring singing and quiz competitions.
In the singing contest, Auchi Diocese emerged as champion, followed by Uromi and Warri dioceses, while Benin Archdiocese won the quiz competition ahead of Issele-Uku and Bomadi dioceses.
