By Peter Oluwasanmi Adubi
The Pontifical Mission Societies (Missio Nigeria), in collaboration with the Pontifical Missionary Union, Rome, successfully organised the Floating Institute of Missiology (FIM) for the Abuja Ecclesiastical Province from 22nd to 26th July 2026 at the Pastoral Centre, Makurdi.
The five-day mission formation programme brought together priests, religious, catechists, and lay faithful from the dioceses of Abuja, Lafia, Idah, Otukpo, Makurdi, Katsina-ala and Gboko. The programme was designed to deepen participants' understanding of the Church's missionary mandate and strengthen their commitment to evangelisation in today's rapidly changing world.
The opening Holy Mass was celebrated by the host Bishop, Most Rev. Wilfred Anagbe, CMF, who warmly welcomed the participants. In his homily, he encouraged them to remain steadfast in their missionary vocation despite the many challenges confronting the Church and society. He urged them to continue proclaiming the Gospel with courage, faith, and hope.
In his opening address, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Rev. Fr. Solomon Patrick Zaku, explained the origin and significance of the Floating Institute of Missiology. He noted that the institute is a mission formation programme approved by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and entrusted to the Pontifical Mission Societies to promote missionary awareness and formation among the People of God in Nigeria.
Throughout the programme, participants received intensive formation on key aspects of the Church's missionary teaching through seven major presentations.
The first presentation, "Situation of Mission in the World: Insights from Evangelii Nuntiandi", explored the biblical and theological foundations of mission, the Church's evangelising mission, and the contemporary challenges facing evangelisation. Participants reflected on the enduring relevance of Evangelii Nuntiandi in inspiring renewed missionary commitment.
