The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged Nigerians to renew their attitude towards the vulnerable in the country.
He said this on Wednesday in Abuja during an interview with newsmen after a requiem Mass to celebrate the life of his elder brother, Fidelis Kaigama, who died on June 6, aged 85.
“We need to renew our attitude towards the poor, the marginalised, the elderly, the sick, and give them the dignity they deserve.
“We also need to care for the living, when they are alive as well as honour the dead. When they are sick, we should look after them,” he said.Kaigama reflected on his brother’s life, saying “he was a good Nigerian and very patriotic.
“Fidelis Kaigama’s life was marked by selfless service and dedication.
“As a teacher, headmaster, general manager of a broadcasting corporation, lecturer in a polytechnic, and permanent secretary in several ministries, he embodied diligence and integrity.
“He took his work seriously, and I drew a lot of inspiration from him to do my work, even as a priest and a bishop, ” he said.
The Archbishop expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his condolences letter, as well as other Nigerians.
Mr. Damian Dodo (SAN), a close family friend, described the late Kaigama as “a man whose life was a beacon of honesty, service, and devotion”.
“The loss of Fidelis Kaigama is felt deeply not only within his family but throughout the entire community.
“His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
“We, as members of the community, stand with the Archbishop in solidarity.
“We ask God to comfort him, strengthen him, and give him the grace to bear the loss of a brother who was very close to him,” Dodo said.
Rev. Fr. Innocent Jooji, in a homily said, ‘while death brings pain, it is also a passage to eternal life for those who believe in Christ’.
He described the late Kaigama as a compassionate, honest, and impactful civil servant who served with integrity and love for humanity.
He urged Nigerians, especially public servants, to emulate Kaigama’s selfless values.