Pope Francis has named Bishop-Elect Habila Tyiakwonaboi Daboh as the new Bishop of Zaria.
This momentous decision, revealed on Thursday, marks a new chapter in the spiritual leadership of the Zaria diocese.
Bishop Daboh’s journey to this esteemed position has been a lifelong commitment to his faith. Born on June 10, 1970, in the Zangon Kataf area, nestled within the Archdiocese of Kaduna, Nigeria, he has deep roots in the region. This connection has played a pivotal role in shaping his spiritual path.
His path towards priesthood commenced with rigorous academic and theological training. The Bishop pursued his studies at Saint Augustine’s Major Seminary in Jos and Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Makurdi. His ordination into the priesthood on July 10, 1999, was a momentous occasion for the Archdiocese of Kaduna.
Also, his service to the Church and his community has been unwavering. Over the years, he has taken on various roles within the Church, each reflecting his deep dedication to his faith. From 1999 to 2003, he served as a Parish priest at the Queen of Apostles in Kakuri, Kaduna, and as Parish vicar at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Kaduna during the same period.
His commitment extended beyond parish duties. From 2001 to 2003, he served as the Chaplain at the Federal Kaduna Polytechnic, where he undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the students and staff.
Between 2006 and 2008, he contributed his expertise as a Teacher at the Good Shepherd Major Seminary in Kaduna, enriching the spiritual growth of future clergy members.
In 2008, he assumed the role of Rector of St. Peter’s Minor Seminary in Katari, Kaduna, where he played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of priests.
For six years, from 2010 to 2016, he held the esteemed position of Dean of the Deanery of Dogon Kurmi. This role allowed him to oversee the spiritual needs of the faithful within the deanery, further cementing his reputation as a dedicated clergyman.
Even with his demanding pastoral roles, Bishop Daboh never ceased his academic pursuits. His quest for knowledge took him to the prestigious Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, where he obtained a Licentiate in Church History from 2003 to 2006. This academic achievement demonstrated his commitment to understanding the rich history of the Church.
Back on Nigerian soil, he pursued a Diploma in Educational Sciences at Ahmadu Bello University of Zaria in 2009. His dedication to educational development complemented his spiritual responsibilities.
In 2019, he achieved another significant academic milestone by obtaining a Doctorate in Church History from the University of Jos. His academic journey reflects his determination to contribute to the Church’s intellectual and theological heritage.
Until this pivotal appointment as the Bishop of Zaria, Bishop Daboh held the esteemed position of Rector of the Good Shepherd Major Seminary in Kaduna since 2016. His leadership and guidance at the seminary have undoubtedly influenced the training of future priests, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve their communities.
In addition to his role at the seminary, he also served as an assistant at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, Juji, Kaduna Archdiocese, where his pastoral care undoubtedly touched the lives of many.
His appointment as the Bishop of Zaria is not only a significant moment for the diocese but also a proof of his unwavering dedication to his faith and his community.
As he steps into this new role, it is with the hope and anticipation that his leadership will continue to inspire and uplift the faithful in Zaria and beyond. His rich background in theology, coupled with his extensive pastoral experience, makes him a fitting choice to guide the spiritual journey of the people of Zaria.
