…Unveils Book of Bishop’s Quotations

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, has described the Catholic Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, as one of Nigeria’s most consistent moral voices whose contributions have continued to shape national discourse on democracy and governance.

Katung made the remarks while unveiling the book, Reflections of a Shepherd: The Quotations of Bishop Matthew Kukah, at the Catholic Secretariat in Durumi, Abuja.

The 229-page publication, authored by James Swam in collaboration with The Kukah Centre, compiles more than 100 quotations by Bishop Kukah on democracy, justice, governance and national unity.

According to the senator, Bishop Kukah’s influence extends beyond the church, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most respected public intellectuals and advocates of justice.

“For decades, Bishop Kukah has been one of Nigeria’s most respected public intellectuals and one of Africa’s most courageous advocates for justice. History will undoubtedly remember him as a churchman, scholar, advocate for justice and nation builder,” Katung said.

He noted that through his interventions on constitutionalism, corruption, interfaith relations, education, security and national unity, the cleric has consistently challenged Nigerians to embrace justice, accountability and the common good.

Katung said Bishop Kukah has repeatedly emphasised that patriotism is rooted in justice, fairness and service rather than blind loyalty to the state.

“He has often comforted the afflicted, but also afflicted the comfortable. That, indeed, is the sacred responsibility of every genuine shepherd,” he added.

The senator identified four major themes highlighted in the book: justice as the foundation of peace, hope amid national challenges, dialogue over confrontation, and leadership as service.

He said that at a time when Nigeria’s diversity is often exploited and many young people are losing faith in the future, voices like Bishop Kukah’s remain vital in promoting the values and moral courage needed for national renewal.

Katung also commended James Swam and The Kukah Centre for documenting the bishop’s thoughts, expressing confidence that the publication would preserve his ideas for future generations.

He urged schools, universities, seminaries and public institutions to adopt the book as a resource for nurturing principled, service-oriented leaders.