By Ade Iyamoye
The Man of Order and Discipline Movement of Nigeria (MOD), on Tuesday kicked off its 3rd National Cultural Carnival and First Reunion Conference at Regina Pacis Girls Secondary School, Garki, Abuja, with leaders calling for renewed unity, discipline, and cultural pride among members.
The week-long event, running from August 12 to 17, 2025, is themed “Unity in Diversity” and marks the first time MOD is hosting a combined cultural carnival and reunion conference in nearly two decades. The last edition was held in 2006 at the same venue.
In his keynote address, MOD President, Col. Sir Amir Nwaeze Matthew Onyemauwa (CKSMA), described the gathering as “a historic and remarkable event” aimed at fostering reconciliation, rebuilding relationships, and positioning MOD for future growth.
“This is more than a celebration. It is a revival of our shared values, to keep order and discipline in the Catholic Church, protect the Holy Eucharist, and serve our communities with love and purpose,” Onyemauwa said.
He outlined two major projects planned by the current leadership: the Very Rev. Msgr. O.P. Achebe Retreat and Skill Acquisition Centre, and the MOD National Secretariat and Conference Centre; both estimated to cost N1 billion.
The projects, he said, would empower unemployed members with skills and provide lasting infrastructure for the movement.
The President also appealed for donations of land to site the projects, assuring that benefactors’ names would be engraved on a marble wall as a permanent record of their contribution.
Special guests at the opening ceremony included Archbishops, Bishops, Priests, Religious, Lay faithful, politicians and high ranking individuals of the society. Traditional leaders from across Nigeria to were not left out.
Former National President and current Planning Committee Chairman, Brig. Gen. Chief Ozonweke Eric, reflected on the unity and obedience that characterized the movement in earlier years, urging members to return to the spiritual discipline that birthed MOD.
“Our primary aim is to make heaven, and for that, there is no shortcut, we must obey constituted authority. Discipline, unity, and obedience are not optional,” he told delegates.
Welcoming participants, Abuja ADMC Commander, Maj. Ikechukwu Madu, called on members to use the occasion to “foster lasting bonds, inspire camaraderie, and promote the core values that define our organization.”
The MOD Cultural Carnival showcases Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage through music, dance, parades, and exhibitions, while the reunion conference provides a platform to discuss challenges, review strategies, and strengthen the movement’s national network.
The event will conclude on Sunday with a grand finale parade and thanksgiving Mass.
