The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Aso Rock Villa Chaplain and Founder of All Christians Fellowship Mission, Rev. Dr. William Uzochukwu Okoye, describing him as ‘a faithful shepherd’ whose passing is a major loss to the Church in Nigeria.
Rev. Okoye was recognised as one of Nigeria’s foremost Pentecostal ministers. During his lifetime, he served as Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), FCT Chapter, CAN National Director on National Issues and Social Welfare, and Chaplain to two Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a statement released on Thursday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN extended its condolences to Rev. Okoye’s widow, Rev. Mrs. Toyin Okoye, his children, the entire Okoye family, the leadership and members of All Christians Fellowship Mission, the PFN, and the wider Christian community.
The association also paid tribute to his late first wife, Mrs. Helen Okoye, who supported him in ministry until her death a few years ago.
“The Church in Nigeria has lost a faithful shepherd, but heaven has welcomed a good and faithful servant,” Archbishop Okoh said.
The CAN President stated that the late cleric dedicated his life to serving God and humanity, spending decades preaching the Gospel, mentoring believers, raising leaders, and promoting unity and growth within the Church.
According to him, “Rev. Dr. Okoye devoted his life to the service of God and humanity. Through his ministry, he faithfully proclaimed the Gospel, nurtured countless believers, raised leaders, and worked tirelessly for the unity and growth of the Church in Nigeria.”
Apart from his pastoral work, Rev. Okoye occupied several leadership positions within the Christian community. He served as CAN Chairman in the FCT, PFN Chairman in the FCT, and later as CAN National Director on National Issues and Social Welfare.
“In these and other responsibilities, he made significant contributions to strengthening the Christian witness in Nigeria and advancing constructive engagement on issues affecting both the Church and the nation,” the statement added.
He also served on the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs, the National Political Reform Conference, and the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission. At different times, he was Chaplain to two Nigerian Presidents and Head of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.
Recalling his personal relationship with the late cleric, Archbishop Okoh said: “I remember Rev. Dr. Okoye as a humble servant of God who discharged every responsibility entrusted to him with wisdom, grace and unwavering dedication. He was deeply committed to the unity of the Church and was always ready to offer his experience, counsel and support whenever called upon.”
The CAN President noted that the late minister’s calm nature, integrity, and commitment to advancing God’s Kingdom earned him admiration across different Christian denominations.
As Christians grieve the passing of Rev. Okoye, Archbishop Okoh encouraged them also to celebrate a life devoted to God and dedicated to serving humanity.
“While we mourn his departure, we also thank God for a life of faithful service, impactful leadership and enduring legacy. We pray that the Lord will comfort his family, the All Christians Fellowship Mission, and all who mourn him. May God grant them the strength to bear this great loss and sustain them with His unfailing grace.
“May the soul of Rev. Dr. William Uzochukwu Okoye rest in the eternal peace of our Lord Jesus Christ,” he said.
