Our History
Nicholas Okoh was born on 10th November, 1952 at Owa Alero, Ika North East Local Government Area, Delta State to Mr. Stephen Chinakwe and Mrs. Nwagho Okoh, both deceased. His parents were peasant farmers who practiced subsistence farming.
Early Life & Education
He attended St. Michael’s (Anglican) School, Owa-Alero from 1958-1964 and obtained the First School Leaving Certificate. After a brief stint in business, he joined the Nigerian Army in 1969 while still a confirmation candidate. He was later confirmed by Bishop Idowu at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Ondo.
During the Nigerian Civil War, he surrendered his life to God after a war-front experience. In 1971, he rededicated himself to the Lord and became a freelance evangelist, leading youth fellowships in Makurdi, Benue State.
He passed his O’Level in 1974 and A’Level in 1976 while at Vining Christian Leadership Centre, Akure, where he trained as a catechist. He later gained admission to Immanuel College of Theology, Ibadan (1976–1979), obtaining Diplomas in Religious Studies and Theology.
Ministry & Service
He was ordained in July 1979 and served as Chaplain at 3 Armoured Division Garrison, Jos. That same year, he proceeded to the University of Ibadan, earning a B.A (Hons) in 1982 and an M.A in 1985.
In December 1986, he married Miss Nkasiobi Amaechi, and they are blessed with five children and a grandchild.
He was made a Deacon in 1979, priested in 1980, and preferred Archdeacon in 1991. In May 2001, he was consecrated Bishop, elected Archbishop in July 2005, and became the Primate of All Nigeria on March 25th, 2010.
Achievements & Recognition
In recognition of his service, he received a Doctor of Laws (LL.D, honoris causa) from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo in November 2010, and a Doctor of Divinity (DD, honoris causa) from Paul University, Awka in December 2017.