The five orders of knighthood conferred by the Sovereign Pontiff — among the highest distinctions the Holy See can bestow on the lay faithful.
The Pontifical Orders represent one of the highest and most prestigious distinctions which the Pope — who is not only Supreme Pontiff and Head of the Roman Catholic Church, but also "Sovereign Prince" (Fons Honorum) of the Vatican City State — can bestow on an individual. Such awards are granted in recognition of an individual's pre-eminent service to their faith, community, or the work of the Holy See.
In Nigeria, lay faithful have generally been made members of the Pontifical Orders of Saint Gregory the Great or Pope Saint Sylvester, with the other Orders being reserved for Sovereigns, Heads of State, or high-ranking government or diplomatic officials.
The supreme and most exclusive of the Pontifical Orders, reserved solely for reigning Sovereigns and Heads of State. Very rarely bestowed and only during significant state, official, or pastoral visits involving the Supreme Pontiff.
Reserved for Sovereigns
Among the oldest of the papal knightly orders. Historically conferred on those who have rendered distinguished service to the Church and society at the highest levels of state or diplomacy, as well as military leaders.
Heads of State · Diplomats
Founded by Pope Pius IX in 1847, the Order — together with its Collar — is reserved for Sovereigns, Heads of State, and high-ranking officials in recognition of their service to the Church and society.
Heads of State · Senior Officials
Established by Pope Gregory XVI in 1831, this is the most frequently bestowed Pontifical Order in Nigeria. It recognises lay people, both male and female, for distinguished personal service to the Church and the community.
Lay Faithful — Most Common in Nigeria
Re-established by Pope Pius X in 1905, this Order honours lay Catholics for outstanding service to the Church, often in professional, civic, or volunteer capacities across Dioceses and communities.
Lay Faithful — Common in Nigeria
In addition to the five Orders, the Holy See also bestows Papal Medals — including the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice and the Benemerenti Medal — honouring particular acts of devotion, service, or generosity.
Honour for Service
Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) approved the formation of APKMN to give Papal honourees the group cohesion to serve the Church in greater capacity, and as a Peer Referent Group to help honourees with greater service to the Church and humanity.
Admission to the Supreme Order of Christ, the Pontifical Order of the Golden Spur, and the Collar of the Pontifical Order of Pius IX are reserved solely for reigning Sovereigns and Heads of State.
Members of APKMN are entitled to use post-nominal letters according to the Order they have been admitted to, for example:
If you are a Papal honouree resident in Nigeria and would like to join the Association, we warmly welcome you.