-Okie Johnson Ndoh, others recognised

 By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi, Buea

The Diocese of Buea has celebrated a landmark 75 years of its canonical erection. The event heightened on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with a vibrant and deeply spiritual ceremony held at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral in Molyko. The event brought together high-ranking church officials, local government dignitaries, and a multitude of faithful in a grand celebration of faith, legacy, and renewed commitment to evangelisation.

Presiding over the commemorative Mass was His Excellency Jose Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, joined by bishops from across the country. Their presence underscored the significance of the Diocese of Buea, not just as the first diocese established in Cameroon, but as a foundational pillar of Catholic faith in the country.

Honouring the legacy of faith

Established on April 18, 1950, by Pope Pius XII, the Diocese of Buea has stood as a beacon of spiritual leadership and community development for three-quarters of a century. In his address, the current Bishop of Buea, Most Reverend Michael Bibi, reflected on the Diocese’s journey, praising the generations of clergy and lay faithful who have nurtured and sustained the Church’s mission. “We are celebrating 75 years under the legacy of faith, the faith that has been handed down through generations, the faith that continues to guide and sustain us,” Bishop Bibi stated. “We thank God for the opportunity to celebrate this milestone, and we extend our gratitude to all who have supported our evangelising mission.”

The bishop also used the occasion to announce the call for a Diocesan Synod, inviting clergy, religious, and lay members to collectively reflect on the future direction of the Diocese. “We need to ask ourselves what kind of Diocese we want moving forward,” he said. “This is a time for evaluation, decision-making, and unity.”

Recognising pillars of support

The anniversary was also marked by special recognitions honouring individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth of the Diocese. Among them was South West Governor, Bernard Okalia Bilai who received a medal for his continuous support to the Church.

Also honoured was Okie Johnson Ndoh, National President of the Catholic Men’s Association (CMA), whose leadership is said to hav revitalised the group’s presence and impact.

Archbishop Bettencourt presented the award to Okie Johnson, to resounding applause from the congregation. “His dedication shows true Christian service,” he said.

Under Okie’s tenure, the CMA has flourished across Cameroon, notably in Buea, with chapters now active in every parish. He spearheaded the construction of a modern three-story National Secretariat building in Buea and introduced impactful initiatives, including scholarship programmes for seminarians, medical outreach for rural communities, and vocational development for disadvantaged youth.

Bishop Emeritus, Bushu Emmanuel was also awarded a special medal recognising his pivotal role in nurturing the Diocese during his episcopacy.

A gift from afar

In a surprising and heartfelt moment, Bishop Bibi was presented with a brand-new 2025 Land Cruiser by his friends in the United States, led by Dr. Mbah. The vehicle is intended to support the Bishop’s pastoral missions across the vast Diocese, often requiring extensive travel to remote communities.

The gesture highlighted the international connections and support networks that continue to uphold the Diocese’s mission work beyond Cameroon’s borders.

“Buea, our Mother Diocese”

One of the most moving addresses came from Archbishop Andrew Nkea, speaking on behalf of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon. He lauded Buea as the “Mother diocese” of the nation’s Catholic Church, reminding the congregation that for five years following its creation, Buea remained the only diocese in the country. “Buea, you are our mother,” Archbishop Nkea declared passionately. “Nobody can take that natural right away from you. You remain our mother, and you always will.”

He noted the convergence of several key anniversaries in 2025: the 75th anniversary of the Diocese, the 25th anniversary of Bishop Bibi’s priesthood, and the 25th anniversary of the Diocese’s pastoral plan. These milestones, he said, make Buea a focal point of national reflection and celebration within the Church.

Looking ahead with unity

The ceremony concluded with a sense of renewed unity, hope, and purpose. The palpable spirit of joy, thanksgiving, and community served not only as a commemoration of past achievements but also as a launching pad for future initiatives.

As Bishop Bibi and the faithful prepare for the upcoming Diocesan Synod, the call to maintain and improve upon the Diocese’s foundations remains strong. It is a call for reflection, inclusivity, and forward thinking.

In the words of Bishop Bibi, “We must ask ourselves what we want our Diocese to be—not just today, but in the decades to come. Together, in communion with each other, we will continue to grow in faith and service.”

As the faithful dispersed from the Co-Cathedral that day, one message rang loud and clear: the Diocese of Buea, rooted in faith and strengthened by unity, is ready for its next 75 years

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A great crowd of Christians of Presbyterian Church PC Bonadikombo in Limbe, Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon, turned out to celebrate the 2025 Easter feast in the Church on Sunday, April 20. In songs, claps, dance, smiles and thanksgiving to God, the Christians celebrated the resurrection of their Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, which they affirmed remains their hope and the confirmation of their faith.

In both the first service (7am) and second service (9am), the word of light was dished out to the faithful, amidst other activities, including special thanksgivings, baptism and confirmation etc.

Putting the day’s event in context, the Parish Pastor of PC Bonadikombo, Rev. Mrs. Pamela Wilson Enanga said, “Easter Sunday to all children of God is the day we believe Jesus Christ ressurrected from the dead. He was crucified on Good Friday, He died on the cross, was buried and on the third day, which is Easter Sunday, He ressurrected. We are happy, that is why we are celebrating that Christ has conquered the grave and has conquered death and  has brought us victory, eternal life and salvation.”

For her message to the Christians following the text drawn from Daniel 3:13 – 30, Rev. Enanga Wilson said, “We have heard about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego who challenged idol worship in the days of King Nebuchadnezzar, that those who worship idols do not have a God. They were focused to worship the true, one and only living God and even in the fiery furnace, they were not consumed because the Angel of The Lord was there with them. Those who trust in The Lord are like Mt. Zion; they can never be moved nor shaken. God has done us a good thing by giving us His Only begotten Son to die for us to be set free. Therefore we must believe and follow Him so that when we die, we shall ressurrect. Believe God and be saved, believe Jesus so that even when you die, you shall live again.”

Corroborating the parish Pastor, the Associate Pastor of PC Bonadikombo, Rev. Ighe John Fonki urged the faithful to continuously live in awe of God, because He is ever ready to deliver His children from every danger and adverse situation, like He did to the three Hebrew boys. “Do not doubt God… Do not limit Him… Worship and serve God only… As a believer, you must take a stand against false belief and idol worship because our God is able to deliver us at all times”.

In her intervention, the Chairperson of PC Bonadikombo, Mbwaye Eposi Florence who doubles as Mayor of Limbe I municipality, while urging her brethren to celebrate Easter Sunday with hope and also by touching the lives of the less privileged, said “We suffered with Jesus in the last 40 days, died with Him on Good Friday and today we have ressurrected with Him. This has given us joy, hope, a good future. .. Jesus was the only sacrificial lamb of God to wash away our sins once and for all. .. We are cleansed by His death and ressurrection and today we are so happy “.

From Ash Wednesday, Christians of PC Bonadikombo engaged a 40-day self-denial programme, in commemoration of the sufferings and death of Jesus Christ. A total of over 1,500 Christians came to Church with their self-denial thanksgiving to celebrate Christ’s victory over death.

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The national president of the Catholic Men Association CMA, Okie Johnson Ndoh, has anwered the cries of Christians of St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme Limbe, by gifting them a statue of St. Joseph. The appeal made earlier on behalf of the Church by Brother Akimeh, President of the Catholic Men Association (CMA) at St. Patrick Catholic Church was speedily addressed by the national president, and presented to the Church on Palm Sunday, amidest huge jubilation. The plea was not not made merely for an object of worship but according Akimeh representes a profound desire to complete the Holy Family within their parish by acquiring a statue of St. Joseph. St. Patrick Catholic Church already housed statues of Jesus and Mother Mary, symbols that embody the essence of Christian devotion and family sanctity, according to the Catholic faith. However, as articulated by Brother Akimeh, the absence of St. Joseph rendered their representation incomplete, a sentiment echoed by many other parishes throughout Cameroon who similarly sought this vital addition to their spiritual heritage. Recognising the deep-rooted connection he shares with St. Patrick Ngeme Parish in Limbe, Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh prioritised this request among numerous others, as President General. His decision underscores not only his affection for this particular parish but also highlights a commitment to fostering spiritual completeness across communities. The timing of this gesture coincided with Holy Week, a period marked by reflection and reverence in the Christian calendar, making it all the more poignant for the congregation at St. Patrick Catholic Church. On Palm Sunday, as members processed into the church with joyful anticipation, they were met with a momentous occasion: the presentation of the long-awaited statue of St. Joseph. Brother Ngah Eric, appointed by Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh to oversee this ceremonial event alongside Communication Secretary, Wasso Norbert, expressed gratitude for being part of such an impactful moment in their community’s spiritual journey. The handing over ceremony was filled with jubilant celebrations. Christians waved palm branches high above their heads while singing praises  “Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!”. In reflecting on this significant stage of achievement for St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme Limbe, Brother Ngah noted that “the Christians are all happy.” Moreover, Rev Father Ernest Ensah’s acknowledgment during this ceremony emphasised gratitude towards Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh’s initiative and expressed hope for his presence during an upcoming blessing ceremony for the statue, a testament to ongoing engagement between parish leadership and CMA representatives. The arrival of St. Joseph’s statue serves as a beacon of hope and fulfillment for Ngeme Christians. It symbolises not just completion but also unity within their faith community; where Jesus is present alongside Mary and now Joseph, signifying a holistic representation of familial sanctity rooted in Christian teachings.  The collective prayers offered by members at St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme for good health and longevity for Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh encapsulate an appreciation that transcends mere words; it reflects a deep-seated understanding that leadership grounded in faith can indeed put smiles on faces while nurturing spiritual growth within parishes across Cameroon.

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On the occasion of the celebration of Palm Sunday 2025, the parish pastor of Presbyterian Church PC Bonadikombo, Rev. Mrs Enanga Pamela Wilson delivered a poignant and inspiring sermon, urging congregants to remain steadfast in their pursuit of righteousness during the sacred week. Her message resonated deeply within the hearts of Christians, prompting profound reflection on the essence of embodying Christ’s love and sacrifice. Rev. Enanga posed a critical question: Is pursuing righteousness merely an adherence to rules and rituals, or is it about embodying the very essence of Christ’s love?

Drawing inspiration from scriptures found in Revelation 19:11-16 and John 12:12-19, she illuminated the duality inherent in Palm Sunday, a day marked by joyous celebration juxtaposed with a foreshadowing of sacrifice. These passages recount Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where palm branches were waved high in jubilant recognition of His arrival. Yet, beneath this festive exterior lies a reminder that true triumph often emerges through trials and tribulations.

As Christians reflect upon Jesus’ journey into Jerusalem on that significant day, they are reminded that He faced temptation with unwavering grace and strength. This reflection invites congregants to consider how often they encounter challenges that test their commitment to doing good. In her sermon, Rev. Enanga emphasised that such challenges should not serve as deterrents; rather, they should embolden believers to strengthen their resolve to follow Christ’s example as beacons of light amidst darkness and agents of kindness in a world yearning for compassion. In her call to action for Holy Week, the Pastor encouraged congregants to deepen their commitment to acts of kindness and service within their communities. She articulated a vision where every Christian carries forward the message of love and redemption exemplified by Jesus not just on Palm Sunday but consistently throughout their lives. Her assertion that “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”, encapsulates the transformative power inherent in selfless service. Rev. Enanga’s words resonated profoundly as she urged attendees not merely to remember but also to act, making conscious decisions as followers of Christ to engage with those around them. She challenged them to extend kindness where there may be strife and hope where despair prevails. This call for active participation underscores an essential tenet of Christian faith, the imperative nature of living out one’s beliefs through tangible actions.

The sentiment expressed by Rev. Enanga that each act of kindness can create ripples throughout the community serves as a powerful reminder that individual actions can lead to collective transformation. As she eloquently stated, “Let each wave you create be one that carries forth love and compassion for all those you encounter.” Such imagery evokes a sense of responsibility among Christians; it calls them not only to reflect on their faith but also actively engage with it through service.

As congregants departed from this uplifting sermon, they were left with an invigorating challenge: To go forth as vessels for His glory steadfast in faith and committed to goodness during Holy Week and beyond. Rev. Enanga’s message serves as both inspiration and exhortation, a clarion call for Christians everywhere to embody righteousness through acts rooted in love, compassion, and unwavering commitment.

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His Lordship Immanuel Bushu expressed great delight with the works of his priest by stating that; “Father Nkeze is a very strong and hardworking priest and I pray he continues on this path and always keep true to God. The other priests should copy the example of Father Nkeze because he is a steady person who trusts in God and he is very faithful to his calling. The Berakah ministry is a great and wonderful initiative because as Catholics the core of everything is Jesus Christ. The Berakah idea is a way forward for those who have been sleeping and do not know their faiths as Catholics”.
“I am feeling Berakah today and Berakah means, to praise God, to thank him and to bless him. What I have discovered for 25 years as priest is that, there is a father who is so faithful and that is God Almighty. And the only way I can thank God is starting the Berakah ministry where i will train Africans how to be positive in life. It is a positive spirituality about gratitude, appreciation and joy. It is not about negativity; rather it is a new mindset of blessings. My inspiration to coming up with this ministry is my life experience which has been filled with so many challenges but am glad because God allowed it inorder to take to me to a higher level”. Father Jingwa Nkeze told reporters
Father Nkeze reminded his Christians that they all are richly blessed and nobody should deceive them in any way by luring them into the wrong direction. Though he said he knows they all are broken but reassured them that God loves all Christians and he will take care of them from the beginning till the end.
About Reverend Father George Nkeze
Reverend Father George Nkeze was born on November 15 1963 in Mamfe, to Micheal Wengem Nkeze and Agnes Menyi Nkeze as the second son. His intention of becoming a priest was made known in 1973, a year after the completion of his primary school studies. He successfully got into the St Thomas Aquinas’ Major Seminary in Bambui and began studies in 1982. After seven years in the seminary he was qualified for ordination but this delayed for three years. Finally Bishop, Major Pius Suh Awa ordained George Jingwa Nkeze into the priesthood and he became Rev Father George Nkeze Jingwa.
25 years today, his priestly motto remains “The stone which the builders rejected”. How remarkable, what an amazing thing the Lord has done. (Matt.21:42, Ps.118:22-23).

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Apostle Johnson Suleman, the founder of Omega Fire and Miracles Ministries, based in Auchi, Edo State in Nigeria said, Sunday, August 14, 2016, during a live service that Cameroonians will be experiencing a tragic explosion soon.
The televangelist noted for such prophecies said there will be an explosion in Cameroon in which many people will be killed and that Syria will experience the same calamity on the same day.
“…Please pray for Cameroon. What I am seeing now, we have to pray for Cameroon so that the country will not cry. I see something explode…plenty people die,” Apostle Suleman said in a prophecy.
He added that the explosions that will occur in Cameroon will also happen in Syria on the same day, though he fell short of going into specifics.
Hear him: “We are going to pray. The same thing I see in Syria, multiple explosions as in Cameroon, on the same day. Open your mouths and pray for those countries. Let God arise. Pray for the nation of Cameroon, all the municipalities, all the quarters. Let God protect. Let those [evil] people be exposed.”
Suleman holds that when God speaks, no matter how it is interpreted, it will come to pass.
Prophet Chirac Nyenti Tiku, Pastor of the Author of Solution Parish Muyuka in a prophecy, published in The SUN No. 0391 on August 1, said Mount Cameroon will erupt before the year 2016 goes memory lane.
Chirac said God revealed to him in a vision on July 21 that the highest peak in West Africa, which last erupted in 1999, will erupt again with untold casualties.
“On July 21, while I was sleeping after praying throughout the night, I had a revelation from God. I saw Mount Cameroon erupting. This eruption was greater than the last eruption we witnessed. I witnessed the last eruption and I can tell you that what I saw was heavier,” the prophet said.
He said God told him to pray as a way of limiting the casualties in the event where the Mountain erupts. “When God reveals, He has the power to redeem. If we only pray, God will be able to do something. In the revelation, God pointed out that the eruption will take place before the end of this year, though he did not give the exact date,” Tiku said.
The Prophet warned that “Prophecy is not entertainment. Let’s take it seriously. I don’t speak on my own. I speak God’s word. I have been in the prophecy ministry since 2007. I have been operating under the gift.”
Chirac Nyenti Tiku says the name “prophet” is not a title but a responsibility. Growing up as a vagabond, he says God called him to the prophecy ministry and he has since remained committed to the call.
However, on Sunday, August 14, 2016, Apostle Johnson Suleman, apparently confirmed Prophet Chirac’s prophecy.
Suleman talked of a large explosion that will claim lives; a large explosion could well be an eruption of Mount Cameroon as predicted by Prophet Chirac two weeks ago.
Whether it turns out to be the same prophecy or distinct revelations, one thing is clear, that Cameroonians should pray for the unknown because a “tragic explosion” could be a shakeup of the state structure or a change in the country’s leadership.
Hon. Joseph Mbah Ndam, Vice President of the National Assembly and Frontline Adherent of the opposition Social Democratic Front, SDF, has predicted doom for Cameroon should President Paul Biya leave power.
“The post Biya era is foreseeable because nothing lasts forever. You cannot fool all the people all the time. There will come a time when the people will say enough is enough. That time will come,” Mbah Ndam had told The SUN.
He described the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, CPDM as a jungle held together by the party’s national chairman, Paul Biya. To him, should Biya lose his grip on power, the CPDM will split into several other parties, or may even become extinct.
As predicted by Apostle Suleman, an explosion could well come from the militant group, Boko Haram. Their last suicide mission in Cameroon is known to have taken place on June 30 this year claiming 11 lives.

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