Fr. Cyril Nnamdi Mbata, C.M., was born on September 23, 1959, in Umuduru Onuoma, Amaeke-Atta, Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State. He was the fourth of nine children born to the respected teacher and disciplinarian, Mr. John Mbata, and his wife, Justina. Fr. Cyril had his primary education in the Mbaitoli area of Imo State, often moving around with his father as his teaching assignments required. His early encounter with the Vincentians began during the Nigerian Civil War, when the Vincentian priests were stationed in Atta—then a retreat center. His father’s generosity and service to the poor brought young Cyril into close contact with the Vincentians and their charism. Upon completing his primary education, he gained admission into St. Peter Claver Minor Seminary, Ngor-Okpala, Imo State. After graduating from the minor seminary, his desire led him naturally into the Vincentian Congregation. On September 27, 1979, he began his formation at the Internal Seminary (Novitiate) in Ogobia, Benue State. He then proceeded to Bigard Memorial Seminary, Ikot-Ekpene, for philosophical studies. It was during his second year of philosophy that he lost his beloved father. At the end of his philosophy program, he voluntarily requested to have a year of apostolic experience. He later continued with theological studies at Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu (1985–1989). He was ordained a priest of the Congregation of the Mission on September 23, 1989, at the Holy Ghost Cathedral, Enugu, by Most Rev. Michael Eneje. Fr. Cyril’s first posting as a Priest was at St. George’s Parish, Oraifite as an Associate pastor. In 1991, he was posted to Blessed Gabriel Michael House, Ikot-Ekpene, where he served as the bursar of the community. He was later sent to Ireland for further studies in Spirituality. After completing his Master’s degree, he returned to Nigeria and was appointed Director of the Novitiate at Ogobia—a role he fulfilled on three separate occasions. His time in the novitiate revealed not just his spiritual depth, but also his love for nature and agriculture. One of his hobbies was horticulture. He revitalized the old orange orchard, expanded the farm, and built a piggery that became well-known in the area. He passed on to the novices not only spiritual knowledge but also a love for creation and the dignity of labor. Fr. Cyril also served as Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Maryland. He was instrumental in completing the parish church and was deeply involved in the strategic positioning and construction of the rectory. This assignment remains one of his most challenging yet impactful apostolates. Fr. Cyril was a humble, spiritual, and industrious Vincentian priest. He lived the charism of the Congregation with deep conviction—serving the poor, forming young the ones, and nurturing both souls and soil with equal dedication. Rest in peace dear father.