In a significant move reflecting the global reach of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV has elevated Rev. Mons. Anthony Onyemuche Ekpo, a distinguished Nigerian cleric, to the role of Assessor for General Affairs within the Secretariat of State. Previously serving as Undersecretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, Mons. Ekpo's appointment underscores the Holy See's commitment to fostering diplomatic and administrative excellence in its central governance.

This announcement, detailed in the official Vatican Bollettino issued today, highlights Mons. Ekpo's rapid ascent in the service of the Holy See. Born on September 24, 1981, in Umudike, Nigeria, he was ordained a priest on July 30, 2011, and incardinated in the Diocese of Umuahia. Holding advanced degrees in Systematic Theology and Canon Law, Mons. Ekpo joined the Vatican's Section for General Affairs as an Official on September 5, 2016. His most recent position, appointed on April 18, 2023, involved key responsibilities in advancing the Church's mission for integral human development, addressing global issues such as poverty, migration, and environmental justice.

Fluent in Igbo, English, Italian, and French, Mons. Ekpo brings a multicultural perspective to his new duties. The Assessor for General Affairs plays a pivotal role in coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Secretariat of State, supporting the Vatican's extensive diplomatic network and internal administrative functions. This appointment not only recognizes his proven expertise but also symbolizes the increasing influence of African voices in the upper echelons of the Roman Curia.

The news has been met with widespread joy and gratitude within Vatican circles and beyond. "We welcome this news with great joy and deep gratitude: it is an honour and a sign of trust that we fully share, even in the natural sadness to say goodbye to a Superior who is always available, attentive and close to everyone," stated a communique from the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. To Mons. Ekpo, sincere wishes are extended for "a fruitful service and full success in your new assignment alongside the Holy Father."

This elevation comes alongside another key nomination announced today: Rev. Mons. Mihăiţă Blaj, a Romanian diplomat, has been appointed Under-Secretary of the Section for Relations with States and International Organizations in the Secretariat of State. Born on October 7, 1978, in Gherăeşti, Romania, Mons. Blaj entered the Holy See's diplomatic service in 2012, serving in nunciatures in Ecuador, Georgia, and Chad before his recent transfer to the Secretariat in 2022. Multilingual in Italian, French, English, Spanish, and German, his expertise will bolster the Vatican's international relations efforts.

These appointments reflect Pope Leo XIV's ongoing efforts to refresh and diversify the Vatican's leadership, ensuring a blend of pastoral sensitivity and diplomatic acumen in addressing contemporary global challenges. As the Church navigates an era of geopolitical shifts and humanitarian crises, figures like Mons. Ekpo are poised to play instrumental roles in promoting peace, justice, and human dignity worldwide.