It was a moment of gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment as the Catholic community gathered at the Holy Ghost Parish Umuanunu Nsu, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State to celebrate the 25th priestly ordination anniversary of Very Rev. Fr. Martin Uwakwe, a shepherd whose ministry has been defined by faith, humility and unwavering service to God and humanity. The celebration of January 4, 2026 came as the second leg of Very Rev Fr Uwakwe’s 25th years anniversary as a Catholic priest which held on August of 2000. The first celebration was held in his parish in Lagos. The celebration at Umuanunu became more significant considering that Martin happens to be the first and indeed the only priest to be ordained at Umuanunu Nsu, a catholic community which have produced almost 10 priests and a legion of Rev Sisters. The other priests and Rev Sisters were all ordained at parishes outside Umuanunu Nsu.
Ordained a quarter of a century ago, Fr. Uwakwe’s journey in the vineyard of the Lord has been one marked by steadfast devotion to the Gospel and a deep passion for pastoral care. From his early years in priesthood, he distinguished himself as a priest who listens, teaches and leads by example, earning the respect of parishioners, fellow clergy and the wider community.
Over the past 25 years, Fr. Uwakwe has served in various capacities within the Church, touching lives through preaching, administration and social outreach. As a parish priest and later as Very Reverend, he has been instrumental in strengthening parish structures, promoting unity among the faithful and nurturing vocations to the priesthood and religious life. His homilies, often simple yet profound, have continued to inspire parishioners to live out their faith beyond the church walls.
Beyond the pulpit, Fr. Uwakwe is widely known for his commitment to education, youth development and support for the less privileged. Many recall his quiet interventions in times of hardship, his counsel during moments of confusion, and his fatherly presence in times of grief. For him, priesthood has never been about position, but about service.
The silver jubilee celebration provided an opportunity for thanksgiving to God for the gift of his life and ministry. During the thanksgiving Mass, speakers paid glowing tribute to Fr. Uwakwe’s dedication, describing him as a bridge-builder, a man of prayer and a priest after God’s own heart. They noted that his consistency and moral integrity remain his greatest legacy.
In his brief remarks, Fr. Uwakwe expressed gratitude to God for the grace that has sustained him over the years. He also thanked his brother priests, parishioners, family and friends for their prayers and support, emphasizing that whatever he has achieved in 25 years is the fruit of collective encouragement and God’s mercy.
As he marks this significant milestone, the 25th anniversary of the Very Rev. Fr. Martin Uwakwe is not just a celebration of years, but a celebration of impact. It is a reminder that a life devoted to service, anchored in faith and expressed through love, can leave lasting footprints on hearts and communities.
The journey continues, and for Fr. Uwakwe, the silver jubilee is both a moment of reflection and a call to deeper commitment in the years ahead.
