In his demonstration of faith, humility, and devotion to God, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency, Comrade Philip Shaibu, joined Catholic faithful at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Parish Centre, Rochdale, United Kingdom, where he served as a Mass Server and Cross Bearer during the Father’s Day celebration Mass.
The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State, who has continued to distinguish himself through public service and dedication to humanity, was seen carrying the processional cross during the sacred liturgy, a role traditionally reserved for altar servers and one that symbolizes service, sacrifice, and commitment to Christ.
For many worshippers in attendance, the sight of a former high-ranking public official and serving head of a federal institution humbly participating in church service sent a message about the place of God in leadership and the importance of servant leadership.
Speaking after the Mass, parishioners described Shaibu’s action as a practical example of how public office in Nigeria and African continent should never separate leaders from their faith, values, or commitment to service.
The Father’s Day celebration, which honors fathers and their immeasurable contributions to their families, communities, and society, provided an opportunity for reflection on leadership, responsibility, sacrifice, and the fear of God. These virtues, many observers noted, were embodied in Shaibu’s willingness to serve at the altar despite his status and accomplishments in public life.
Beyond his official responsibilities as Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Shaibu has remained steadfast in his Christian faith and commitment to the Catholic Church. His participation in the Mass in Rochdale further reinforces what many who know him have long acknowledged, that his devotion to God is not limited by geography, position, or circumstance.
Whether in Nigeria or abroad, Shaibu continues to identify with the values of the Catholic faith, demonstrating that true service to God transcends titles, offices, and political affiliations. His conduct at Sacred Heart Catholic Church illustrated that leadership is most impactful when it is anchored on humility, reverence for God, and service to humanity.
Shaibu actions also reflect the biblical teaching that those who aspire to lead must first learn to serve. By carrying the cross during the Mass, he symbolically demonstrated that no responsibility in the service of God is too small and that faithfulness in little things remains the foundation of greatness.
As families around the world celebrated Father’s Day, some worshippers left the church inspired by a simple but profound lesson, that positions of authority may elevate a person in society, but humility before God remains the highest calling.
This is a challenge to leaders everywhere, that true greatness is measured not only by the offices one occupies but also by the willingness to serve God and humanity with humility, wherever one may be in the world
This was contained in a statement signed by
Ben Ogbemudia, SA. Media,
Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, National Institute for Sports, ADC Abuja.