Nigeria Mourns Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze…Catholic Church announces passing of Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City at 69

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has announced the passing of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, who died on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the age of 69. The announcement was made in an official memorial statement issued by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria and signed by its Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Michael A. Banjo.

Describing the late Archbishop as a devoted shepherd and servant of God, the Secretariat said Archbishop Akubeze dedicated his life to both the spiritual renewal of the Church and the holistic development of the faithful. Under his leadership, the Archdiocese of Benin City witnessed significant growth and development, while he remained deeply committed to the welfare and formation of priests.

The statement also paid tribute to his national leadership within the Catholic Church. As a former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Akubeze was remembered as a steadfast defender of the Catholic faith whose preaching and leadership were anchored on truth, humility and faithful service.

His episcopal motto, Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati—”That I may bear witness to the Truth” (John 18:37)—was reflected throughout his ministry, the statement noted. The Secretariat described him as a compassionate pastor whose patient listening, generosity and gentle disposition earned him the respect and affection of both clergy and laity.

It further observed that Archbishop Akubeze believed genuine authority in the Church was measured not by power, but by service, a principle that shaped his pastoral ministry and leadership.

Born on August 25, 1956, Archbishop Akubeze served as Archbishop of Benin City from 2011 after previously serving as Bishop of Uromi. He also served as President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria from 2018 to 2022, becoming one of the country’s most influential Catholic leaders.

The Catholic Secretariat concluded its message with prayers for the repose of his soul, expressing hope in the resurrection and asking that the Risen Lord grant him eternal rest.

The passing of Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze marks the end of an era in the Catholic Church in Nigeria, particularly within the Benin Ecclesiastical Province, where his years of faithful ministry left an enduring legacy of truth, humility, pastoral care and unwavering service to God and humanity.