By Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
The Worthy Supreme Knight of the Order of the Knights of St. Mulumba (KSM) Nigeria, Sir Dr. Charles Mbelede, opened the 46th Supreme Council Convention of the Order in Kaduna on Thursday, urging federal, state and local governments to intensify efforts toward economic stability, security sector reforms and justice for all citizens.
“We consider the ever‑vibrant Press in Nigeria as our partners in progress,” he said, noting that a free press is essential for uncovering corruption, setting national agendas and strengthening democratic governance.
The five‑day convention, hosted by the Kaduna Metropolitan Council, will formally begin on Friday with a concelebrated Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, followed by an opening ceremony to be declared by Governor Uba Sani at Murtala Mohammed Square.
This year’s theme, “The Catholic Knight: An Agent of Hope in the Face of Christian Persecution,” is expected to spark extensive national discussion amid rising concerns about targeted attacks on Christians in parts of the country.
Mbelede highlighted recent international reactions, including remarks by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz calling for sanctions on Nigerian officials, a stance the Nigerian government has strongly rejected.
The Supreme Knight said the convention’s theme had become more topical in light of such comments and the broader security challenges facing the nation.
The lead paper will be delivered by the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, described by Mbelede as “one of Nigeria’s finest clerics” with deep insight into security issues in northern Nigeria. Serving as discussants will be Rev. Fr Prof. Peter Tanko and Prof. John Laah, both respected scholars.
Mbelede announced that KSM has revitalised its investment portfolio over the past four years to reduce reliance on dues and donations. The Order’s bakery and water‑production ventures in Onitsha and Owerri have been upgraded and are now operating “in full throttle.” In addition, KSM, in partnership with U.S.-based charities Kind One International and Charter House/Kind One, has completed solar‑powered water projects in seven communities across Anambra, Benue, Rivers, Ogun, Delta and Kaduna states—all achieved without foreign trips.
While acknowledging reported improvements in Nigeria’s macroeconomic indicators, Mbelede warned that ordinary citizens are yet to feel the impact.
“Inflation and prices of consumer items are still high and impinging negatively on disposable incomes,” he said, calling for additional measures to cushion hardship, protect vulnerable citizens and prioritise job creation to curb youth unemployment. He also urged security agencies to sustain efforts toward restoring peace nationwide.
Reiterating KSM’s long‑standing advocacy for prison reforms, Mbelede expressed concern over persistent congestion in correctional facilities, with over 84,000 inmates recorded last year against a 50,000‑capacity system. He said the Order has engaged with the Ministry of Interior and other justice‑sector institutions, noting that the Federal Government has begun prioritising new prison infrastructure. KSM has directed its diocesan organs to intensify charity, legal aid and medical outreach in prisons across the country.
Mbelede announced the official approval of the Order’s Constitution by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), describing it as a “grand norm” for seamless operations. He also revealed his recent election as Deputy International President of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights (IACK), making him the second Nigerian to hold such an office.
In a special tribute, the Order honoured Super Falcons head coach Sir Justin Pwanidi Madugu—a member and Grand Knight of Yola Sub‑Council—for leading Nigeria to victory at the African Women’s Cup of Nations. Mbelede said Madugu’s achievements embody the Order’s values of excellence, resilience and service.
The Supreme Knight commended Governor Uba Sani for strides in restoring peace, religious tolerance and infrastructural growth in Kaduna State, describing the city as a “commodious and serene setting” for the national gathering.
Closing the briefing, Mbelede urged journalists to provide full coverage of the convention’s activities and thanked them for their support, reaffirming KSM’s partnership with the press in building a more just and prosperous Nigeria.
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