Late Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, Augustine Akubeze
Catholic Church in Nigeria has announced the death of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, who passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the age of 69.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria and signed by its Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Michael A. Banjo.
The Secretariat said the Archbishop died “with hope in the resurrection and complete resignation to the will of God,” describing his passing as a significant loss to the Catholic Church in Nigeria.
Archbishop Akubeze was remembered as a devoted shepherd whose ministry combined spiritual leadership with a strong commitment to the overall development of the Church and the well-being of its members.
According to the statement, “Archbishop Akubeze was a unique Shepherd who understood that the true development of the Church embraces both spiritual renewal and the holistic growth of God’s people.”
It noted that the Archdiocese of Benin City recorded remarkable developmental progress during his years of leadership, while he remained deeply committed to the welfare and formation of priests.
The Secretariat stated that the late Archbishop believed the future of the Church rested on “well-formed Shepherds,” a conviction that shaped his pastoral priorities throughout his ministry.
Reflecting on his national role, the statement described the former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) as a steadfast defender of the Catholic faith.
“As an erstwhile President of the Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, he firmly stood as a pillar of orthodox truth. His voice did not tickle ears but fed souls bringing to light his episcopal motto ‘Ut Testimonium perhibeam veritati’ (Jn. 18:37) which means ‘That I may bear witness to the Truth’,” the statement said.
The Secretariat also praised his humility, generosity and pastoral style, saying his patient listening and selfless service reflected the qualities of a compassionate shepherd.
It added, “His patient listening and selfless generosity embodied a compassionate Shepherd who knew the smell of his flock. He demonstrated always by his gentleness and quiet disposition that genuine authority in the Church is not measured by power but by service and this was a result of his deep level of spirituality.”
The Catholic Secretariat concluded the tribute with prayers for the late Archbishop, saying, “May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and may the Risen Lord who conquered death grant him eternal life in His kingdom. Amen.”
Further details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Church.
