Chief Akaraonye Inaugurated as Chairman, St. Columba’s Catholic Parish Pastoral Council

ThankGod Emeh…

The immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council, Chief Christopher Akaraonye, has been inaugurated as the Chairman of the Pastoral Council of St. Columba’s Catholic Parish, Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.

Chief Akaraonye

The inauguration which took place during a Holy Mass on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at St. Columba’s Catholic Church, Amaimo, was greeted with applause and approval from parishioners and members of the Amaimo community who were present.

In his sermon, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Otuonye, explained that the appointment of Chief Akaraonye and other members of the council was based on merit, competence, and proven track record of service.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Otuonye

He charged the newly inaugurated council members to work selflessly for the growth and development of the Church and humanity, noting that the Pastoral Council serves in an advisory capacity to the Parish Priest, who is the President of the council.

According to him, the Church established the Pastoral Council to assist the priest with guidance and direction in the administration and development of the parish. Rev. Fr. Otuonye expressed confidence that Chief Akaraonye would excel in his new role describing him as a good team player with a strong passion for church service.

In his acceptance speech, Chief Akaraonye, speaking on behalf of his team, expressed gratitude to the Parish Priest and parishioners for the confidence reposed on them as he pledged their commitment to ensuring that the parish breaks new grounds through innovation and purposeful leadership.

Chief Akaraonye further appealed to parishioners for cooperation and support, stressing that collective effort would help advance both the Church and society.

The former Imo NUJ Boss, Chief Akaraonye has previously held several leadership positions within the Catholic Church, including Chairman, Parish Pastoral Council, St. Mark’s Catholic Church, New Owerri; Station Chairman, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, New Owerri; Public Relations Officer (PRO), St. Mark’s Catholic Church, New Owerri; and Chief Porter, Zone 12 Parishes, New Owerri, among others.

Beyond church service, he currently serves as Chief Adviser to the Traditional Ruler of the Obodo Amaimo Autonomous Community and Secretary of the Amaimo Development Council, the highest decision-making body in Amaimo.