Africa, Asia, Oceania and parts of Amazonia that “are being tragically impacted by the spread of the coronavirus pandemic” will be supported by the new fund.

Many hope the church will repeat that activist role as political divisions depress the economy and the living conditions for average Zimbabweans, and as a severe drought threatens a hunger crisis for millions this year.

The Lenten season has begun, and more Nigerians are likely to attend religious gatherings. To stall a possible outbreak, however, Archbishop Alfred Martins of the Archdiocese of Lagos said contact should be restricted.

Nigeria's bishops called on the international community to help the West African country in its fight against ethnic insecurity and terrorist groups such as Boko Haram.

"The time has come for Christians to have a stronger, broader voice in government so that the challenges of poverty and violence can be overcome," Bishop Kukah said.

The three other seminarians -- Pius Kanwai, Peter Umenukor and Stephen Amos -- were released in late January.