By EDOKWE ONONUJU
The Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, has lauded the humanitarian and philanthropic contributions of Hon. Mbazulike Ignatius Iloka, popularly known as Mba Mba, describing him as a steadfast benefactor of the Church and society.
Bishop Okoye made the commendation during a special concelebrated Mass held at Holy Trinity Parish, Uruagu Nnewi, in honour of Hon. Iloka’s 50th birthday, which coincided with the feast of his patron saint, St. Ignatius of Antioch, on Friday, October 17, 2025.
In his homily, the prelate reflected on the Responsorial Psalm, “May your merciful love be upon us, O Lord,” praying for God’s continued mercy and compassion upon the celebrant, his family, and the parish community.
Bishop Okoye praised Hon. Iloka for his consistent generosity, citing recent donations to Holy Trinity Parish that included musical instruments, choir robes, and empowerment packages for 30 members of the Catholic Women Organisation (C.W.O.), all valued at about ₦16 million.
He also commended the celebrant’s past acts of service, such as sponsoring the annual celebration of the elderly and donating Paschal candles to churches across the diocese—an initiative inspired by his late wife, Mrs. Chidiebere Jane Iloka.
“I thank Ignatius for his corporal works of mercy and charity,” Bishop Okoye said. “Feeding the downtrodden and supporting the Church in these difficult economic times is a noble path. May God grant him the desires of his heart.”
While advising the celebrant to be mindful of his health as he enters his golden age, the bishop also expressed appreciation to the leadership of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), led by Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa and Hon. Paschal Agbodike, for restoring priests to high-risk communities such as Isekke, Lilu, and Orsumoghu.
The host priest, Rev. Fr. Placid Udechukwu, joined in celebrating Hon. Iloka, describing him as a pillar of support to the parish. “His birthday falling on the feast of St. Ignatius is a double blessing,” he said.
In his remarks, the visibly elated celebrant thanked his family, friends, associates, and parishioners for their presence and prayers. He reaffirmed his commitment to continue his acts of charity, noting that his philanthropic efforts are driven by faith and the memory of his late wife.
The event also featured the presentation of an award of honour to Hon. Iloka by Bishop Okoye, musical performances led by gospel artiste Mirabel, and a colourful reception attended by dignitaries, including the APGA National Chairman, Hon. Sly Ezeokenwa the C.E.O.of Pineleaf Estate,Bishop Onyeka Nkwesi of Eziowelle, the traditional ruler of Uruagu Nnewi, Obi Charles Afam Obi and a host of other dignitaries
The golden jubilee celebration of Hon. Mbazulike Ignatius Iloka—Mba Mba —was a grand occasion that reflected both his deep faith and enduring impact on the Nnewi Catholic community.