GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO FELICITATES WITH ARCHBISHOP AUGUSTINE AKUBEZE...SAYS HIS SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE SHAPED HIS LEADERSHIP QUALITIES, AT 20TH EPISCOPAL ANNIVERSARY

 


Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has congratulated the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, on the occasion of his 20th Episcopal Anniversary on April 22, 2026.

Governor Okpebholo described the milestone as a testament to Archbishop Akubeze’s enduring commitment to faith, service, and moral leadership. He noted that since his episcopal consecration in 2006, the Archbishop has demonstrated consistency in pastoral responsibility, institutional growth, and community engagement.

The Governor further acknowledged Archbishop Akubeze’s leadership as pioneer Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Uromi and his subsequent appointment as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City in 2011, roles in which he has continued to provide spiritual guidance and stability.

According to the Governor, the Archbishop’s episcopal motto, “Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati” — “to bear witness to the truth” — reflects a ministry defined by integrity, discipline, and service to humanity.

He described Archbishop Akubeze as a steady moral voice whose contributions have strengthened social cohesion and inspired many across Edo State and beyond.

Governor Okpebholo joined the Catholic faithful, the Christian community, and well-wishers in celebrating the Archbishop, praying for continued strength, wisdom, and good health in his service to the Church and society.

Meanwhile the Governor has attributed part of his leadership success to the spiritual guidance and prayers of the Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, Rev. Dr  Augustine Obiora Akubeze, as the cleric marked his 20th Episcopal Anniversary.

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo recounted his first encounter with Archbishop Akubeze, describing it as a defining moment that shaped his political journey and personal resolve to serve the people of Edo State.

The Governor said, “To me, it is a special day. The first day I met him, I saw the glory of God upon his life. I knew, by the time I knelt before him, that I was going to conquer,” 

He disclosed that he had sought the Archbishop’s prayers at a critical point in his journey, particularly as he prepared to take on key challenges confronting the state.

Okpebholo added,  “I requested a prayer from him. I said I was going to fight cultism and work for Edo people. I needed him to pray for me so that God would give me the strength. Today, I am happy that everything I requested has been answered by God,” 

The governor emphasized that Archbishop Akubeze’s spiritual support played a significant role in strengthening his resolve and guiding his actions in office, noting that the milestone anniversary was not only a celebration of years but of impactful service and mentorship.

He further congratulated the Archbishop on his 20 years in episcopal service, expressing optimism for many more years of influence and leadership within the church and society 

He said,  “This is 20 years, and we are still expecting more years to come,” 

The thanksgiving service, held on Wednesday at St. Paul Catholic Church, drew prominent dignitaries, religious leaders, and well-wishers from across the state and beyond.

The event was graced by several high-profile personalities, including the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion; former Edo State Governor,  Chief John Odigie-Oyegun; and former Deputy Governor, RT Hon Philip Shaibu, APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh among others.

Archbishop Akubeze’s two decades of episcopal leadership have been widely recognized for fostering spiritual growth, promoting peace, and influencing governance through moral guidance, an impact that continues to resonate in the lives of leaders and citizens alike.



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