Manny Ita –
The Vatican has announced the appointment of Matthew Hassan Kukah to a senior role within its central governing structure, marking another significant international recognition for the Nigerian cleric. The appointment, approved by Pope Francis, places Bishop Kukah as a member of the Council of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, one of the key departments of the Holy See.
According to an official statement from the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, the appointment was conveyed in a formal letter signed by Pietro Parolin. By this elevation, Bishop Kukah joins a select group of cardinals, archbishops, and bishops drawn from across the world to serve a five-year term on the influential council.
The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development plays a central role in advancing the Catholic Church’s social teachings globally. Its mandate covers critical areas such as human rights, environmental protection, migration, social justice, and overall human development. Members of the council are tasked with advising the Pope and shaping policies that address global humanitarian and ethical challenges.
Bishop Kukah’s appointment is not his first engagement at this level. He had previously been named to the same council in 2022 following its reconstitution and has also served in other Vatican bodies, including the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. His long-standing involvement reflects his reputation as a leading voice on peacebuilding, governance, and interfaith dialogue, both within Nigeria and internationally.
Reacting to the development, Bishop Kukah expressed gratitude and humility, noting that the Dicastery’s focus aligns closely with his academic and pastoral interests. He emphasized his commitment to contributing to global efforts aimed at promoting justice, ethical governance, and human dignity in an increasingly complex world.
The appointment is widely seen as a boost for Nigeria’s representation within the global Catholic Church and underscores the Vatican’s continued inclusion of voices from developing regions in shaping its social and humanitarian agenda.
