The Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CONGOs) has elected a new Chairman of its Board of Trustees, marking a significant moment for the civil society community. Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Fidelis Oriabure Arhedo was chosen for the role at the inaugural Joint Meeting of the Board and Executive Council members held at the conference secretariat in Benin City
Fr. Arhedo brings to the position a blend of pastoral commitment, academic depth, and years of hands-on development work. A native of Idinegbon, Ewatto in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State, he was ordained into the Catholic priesthood in November 2002. Since then, his ministry has extended beyond the pulpit, reflecting a consistent focus on justice, peace, and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Over the years, he has built a reputation as both a scholar and practitioner. He holds qualifications in Philosophy, Theology, and Education, alongside a PhD in Guidance and Counselling from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. His academic interests span social ethics, governance, human rights, and cultural reform, areas that continue to shape his advocacy and leadership style.
In addition to his formal education, Fr. Arhedo has undergone extensive professional training in fields such as criminal justice, conflict management, gender mainstreaming, and global health. These skills have strengthened his ability to design and implement programmes that respond to real community needs.
He currently serves as the Executive Director of the Uromi Justice, Development, Peace and Caritas Initiative (JDPCI), a role he has held since 2006. Under his leadership, the organisation has grown into one of the most respected faith-based development institutions in Edo State, known for its work in human rights, peacebuilding, and social development.
Fr. Arhedo’s influence also extends into public policy. He has contributed to the review of the Edo State Trafficking in Persons Law and supported the implementation of the state’s Gender-Based Violence Policy. As a member of the Edo State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, he continues to play a part in strengthening systems that protect women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
At the provincial and national levels, he serves as the Provincial Coordinator of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) for the Benin Ecclesiastical Province, covering Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa states. He is also the Benin Provincial Coordinator of Church and Society under the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, overseeing key social ministries including education, health, and migration.
Despite his wide-ranging responsibilities, Fr. Arhedo remains closely connected to his pastoral roots. As a parish priest and mentor, he continues to guide the faithful and support young people and families in their spiritual and personal development.
Those familiar with his work describe him as a quiet but firm leader, grounded in principle and driven by service. His approach combines reflection with action, and authority with humility.
His appointment as Chairman of the CONGOs Board of Trustees is widely seen as a step that could strengthen collaboration within the civil society sector, especially at a time when coordinated responses to social challenges are increasingly important.
Fr. Arhedo has received recognition from several organisations, including CONGOs, the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Caritas Nigeria, and the Edo State Medical Women Association.
Speaking on his philosophy of service, he once said, “Service to humanity is the highest expression of faith.”
With his election, stakeholders express optimism that CONGOs will continue to grow in impact and relevance under his guidance.