I received with profound sorrow the news of the passing of His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City.
Nigeria, the Catholic Church, and indeed the people of Edo State have lost an exceptional shepherd, a courageous voice of truth, and a compassionate father whose life was devoted to the service of God and humanity. His Grace’s episcopal motto, “Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati,” “That I may bear witness to the Truth,” was not merely a motto, but the very essence of the life he lived.
For me, this loss is deeply personal. I was privileged to share many memorable moments with Archbishop Akubeze. Beyond his revered position as a spiritual leader, he was a father figure, mentor, and trusted guide whose prayers, wise counsel, and genuine love left an enduring impact on my life. The bond we shared was one of mutual respect, affection, and faith, and I will forever cherish those priceless moments.
Throughout his years of service as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, he exemplified humility, integrity, courage, and the commitment to the Gospel. His leadership strengthened the Church, inspired countless faithful, and contributed immensely to the moral and spiritual development of our nation.
On behalf of my family and the management and staff of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Holy Father, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Benin City, as well as his family and all who mourn this irreparable loss.
While we grieve his passing, we also celebrate a life richly lived in faithful service to God and humanity. I pray that Almighty God grants his gentle soul eternal rest and gives all of us the strength and grace to uphold the values of faith, truth, humility, and selfless service that he so nobly embodied.
May His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, rest in the eternal peace of Christ.
Signed, Comrade Philip Shaibu, Director General National Institute for Sports
