Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has died at the age of 69. Archbishop Akubeze passed away on July 9, 2026. His passing marks the end of a distinguished career dedicated to spiritual leadership and national advocacy within Nigeria.
Announcement Details
The announcement of Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze's death was released on Thursday by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria. The secretariat issued a statement, which it posted on its official Facebook page, confirming the solemn news to the Catholic faithful and the wider public. This official communication initiated a period of mourning and remembrance across the Nigerian Catholic community. Archbishop Akubeze was a native of Ogbakuba, located in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, a detail often noted in tributes to his origins and connection to his roots.
Archbishop's Life and Service
Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze was born on August 25, 1956, in Ogbakuba, within the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. His early life in Anambra laid the foundation for his profound commitment to the Church and his community. He was ordained a priest on August 23, 1983, for the Diocese of Awka, embarking on a path of dedicated service that would span over four decades. His episcopal journey began with his appointment as Bishop of Uromi on December 14, 2005, a significant step in his ecclesiastical career. He was consecrated as Bishop on February 25, 2006, formally taking on the responsibilities of a bishop.
Archbishop Akubeze's service to the Church continued when he was appointed Archbishop of Benin City on March 18, 2011, a role that placed him at the helm of one of Nigeria's prominent archdioceses. He was formally installed in this role on May 28, 2011, beginning a new chapter of leadership. Beyond his archdiocesan duties, Archbishop Akubeze served as the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) from 2018 to 2024. During his tenure as CBCN President, he frequently addressed national issues, advocating for justice, peace, and good governance in Nigeria. His leadership was marked by a steadfast commitment to both the spiritual and social welfare of the Nigerian people, often speaking out on matters of national importance. He held a doctorate in Canon Law, which he earned from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, Italy, in 1991, showcasing his deep academic foundation in Church law. Before his episcopal appointments, he served as a lecturer and formator at Bigard Memorial Seminary in Enugu, where he played a key role in preparing future priests for their ministries, shaping the next generation of clergy. His extensive career spanned over four decades of dedicated service to the Catholic Church in Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on its spiritual landscape.
Tributes and Legacy
Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, died on July 9, 2026, at 69. The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria announced his passing, prompting a period of reflection on his profound contributions to the Church and the nation of Nigeria. Archbishop Akubeze was born in Ogbakuba, Anambra State, and his humble beginnings never deterred his rise to prominent leadership positions. He served with distinction as President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria from 2018 to 2024, a period during which his voice was a significant moral compass for the country. His leadership was particularly marked by his consistent advocacy on national issues, always championing the cause of the common good. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Awka in 1983, initiating a lifelong commitment to the priesthood. His academic achievements included a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, showing his intellectual rigor. His nearly 43 years of service included key roles as Bishop of Uromi and Archbishop of Benin City, leaving a significant and enduring legacy within the Catholic Church in Nigeria. His leadership, scholarship, and pastoral care will be remembered by many.
