The Catholic Church in Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). He was 69.
His passing was announced on Thursday by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, which confirmed that the revered cleric died on July 9, 2026.
In a statement signed by the Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Fr. Michael Banjo, the Church described Archbishop Akubeze as a devoted servant of God whose life was dedicated to the spiritual growth and holistic development of the faithful.
With hope in the resurrection and complete resignation to the will of God, we announce the passing of Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, who was called to eternal rest on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the age of 69, the statement read.
The Catholic Secretariat praised the late Archbishop for his outstanding leadership of the Archdiocese of Benin City, noting that his episcopal ministry was marked by unwavering pastoral care, evangelization and developmental initiatives that strengthened both the Church and the wider community.
According to the statement, Archbishop Akubeze believed that the true mission of the Church extended beyond spiritual guidance to include the overall well-being and growth of God’s people.
His administration was credited with significant progress in the Archdiocese, particularly in pastoral outreach, infrastructure development and the continuous formation of priests.
The Secretariat noted that he remained deeply committed to mentoring young clergy, believing that the future of the Catholic Church depended on well-trained and spiritually grounded priests.
As President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Akubeze emerged as one of the country’s most respected religious leaders, frequently speaking on issues affecting the Church and the nation.
The Secretariat described him as a fearless defender of Catholic doctrine who remained faithful to the teachings of the Church throughout his years of ministry.
His episcopal motto, Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati, translated as “That I May Bear Witness to the Truth (John 18:37) guided his pastoral leadership and public engagements.
According to the Church, Archbishop Akubeze consistently upheld biblical truth and moral values, offering guidance that strengthened the faith of Catholics across Nigeria.
Tributes also highlighted the late Archbishop’s humility, compassion and servant leadership.
The Secretariat described him as a patient listener whose ministry reflected genuine concern for the welfare of the people entrusted to his care.
His gentle disposition and generosity earned him widespread respect among priests, religious communities and lay faithful.
Church officials noted that Archbishop Akubeze demonstrated throughout his ministry that true leadership is measured not by authority or influence but by service, sacrifice and deep spirituality.
The death of Archbishop Akubeze has prompted an outpouring of grief from members of the Catholic community and admirers across Nigeria, many of whom remember him as a courageous spiritual leader, peace advocate and moral voice in national affairs.
As Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, he played a significant role in promoting evangelization, strengthening Church institutions and encouraging unity within the Catholic community.
The Catholic Secretariat concluded its announcement with prayers for the repose of the late Archbishop’s soul. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and may the Risen Lord who conquered death grant him eternal life in His kingdom. Amen.
Archbishop Augustine Akubeze leaves behind a legacy of faithful service, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to the Gospel, one that will continue to inspire the Catholic Church in Nigeria for generations to come.
