The Order of Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM) Nigeria, under the Abuja Metropolitan Council, has elevated 199 members—91 men and 108 women—to the prestigious Fourth Degree, marking a major milestone in their spiritual and leadership journey within the Catholic Order.
Speaking on the sidelines of the investiture ceremony in Abuja, the Supreme Knight, Dr. Charles Mbelede, described the occasion as a reaffirmation of the moral duty of Catholic knights to serve both God and society.
“A knight is a person of honour and integrity, offering time, treasure and talent for the service of God and the common good,” he said, “Our mission includes advocating for stronger security frameworks and standing for justice and truth.”
He added that while the knights do not bear arms, they are actively engaged in humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts across conflict-affected areas.
“The Catholic Church is founded on charity. Through the Knights of St. Mulumba, we offer material relief, spiritual encouragement and advocacy for peace in communities impacted by insurgency and insecurity,” he said.
The investiture ceremony drew participants from dioceses across Makurdi, Lafia and other parts of the region. It combined solemnity and celebration as candidates were formally presented and confirmed worthy of the highest honour in the Order.
Dr. Mbelede noted that the new inductees were drawn from various councils under the Abuja Metropolitan jurisdiction, reflecting the Order’s continued growth and influence across northern Nigeria.
Also speaking at the event, Rev. Father Andrew Dodo of the Kaduna Archdiocese described the Fourth Degree as the pinnacle of knighthood, symbolising the completion of a journey that began at the First Degree.
“This moment marks the height of their knighthood. Just as soldiers aspire to become generals, Catholic knights work toward achieving the Fourth Degree. It is both a spiritual and leadership responsibility,” he said.
The ceremony featured scripture readings, intercessory prayers, and a renewed commitment to the Order’s core values of charity, service, and nation-building. The Worthy Supreme Chaplain, referencing Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, reminded the inductees of the divine source of all gifts and leadership.
