The Association of Papal Knights and Papal Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN) has presented an electronic library (e-library) to Veritas University, Abuja.
In a significant ceremonial event marking the official unveiling of the project, Dame Esther Uduehi, President of the association, explained the significance of the e-library.
She emphasised that “this contribution is a testament to association’s commitment to the advancement of both the academic institution and the Catholic Church at large.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dame Uduehi stated, “In accordance with our mission, we firmly believe that Veritas University, located in the heart of our nation’s capital, Abuja, will undoubtedly emerge as a pinnacle of educational excellence, following the trajectory of numerous Catholic universities across the globe.
“An e-library, inarguably, is an indispensable tool in achieving this aspiration.”
Uduehi further expressed her elation, stating, “We take immense pride in the fact that, within the relatively short span of our organisational existence, we have been able to fulfill a pivotal need of our esteemed Catholic university.
“This e-library holds a special place in the annals of the church and the university, aligning seamlessly with the core objectives that underpinned the establishment of APKMN.”
The foundation of the associationin 2019, as officially endorsed by the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), aimed to empower Papal honourees to lend their voices to ecclesiastical matters and undertake initiatives that contribute to the welfare of the Church while also fostering a sense of collective engagement among its members.
This momentous donation serves as a testament to the association’s adherence to this mission.
Hyacinth Ichoku, Vice-Chancellor of Veritas University, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the institution for this transformative contribution.
He extolled the thoughtfulness and dedication of the Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in conceiving and actualizing the e-library project.
He said, “The establishment of this electronic library, now the primary repository of knowledge for our university, stands as a tribute to the association’s foresight and sacrifices over the years. While celebrating this remarkable achievement, we humbly urge both the Association and individual well-wishers to continue supporting our institution in areas where we require further assistance.”
Ichoku elaborated on the university’s ongoing needs, which include the creation of a central library, facilities for the faculties of engineering and computing science, nursing science, postgraduate studies, and a comprehensive student center.
Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CNBC), added his voice to the chorus of gratitude. He affirmed that Veritas University has grown not merely in size but also in its commitment to excellence.
Notably, he highlighted that the university’s offerings have expanded to produce graduates who not only represent the nation on a national level but also on the international stage.
Commending the association for its remarkable gesture, Ugorji expressed, “We celebrate this institution’s achievements, and while we continue to erect physical structures, it is essential to remember that a Catholic university shapes minds, skills, and, most importantly, character. As a Catholic Church, our educational mission encompasses holistic preparation, equipping individuals not only for their earthly pursuits but also for their eternal destiny.”
Concluding the event, Matthew Kukah, Chairman of the Governing Council of Veritas University and the Bishop of Sokoto, accentuated the pride he takes in the university’s accomplishments and the broader contributions of the Catholic Church to global education.
He highlighted the necessity for the Catholic community to exhibit robustness and unwavering confidence in their educational endeavors.
The establishment of the e-library by the Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria stands as a pivotal testament to the harmonious synergy between faith, academia, and altruism, further enriching the esteemed Veritas University and the overarching mission of the Catholic Church in Nigeria.
