Church of Nigeria Elects Four New Bishops Ahead of 2026 General Synod

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CCN News Correspondent, Abuja

ABUJA, Nigeria | July 17, 2026 — The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has elected four new bishops to provide episcopal leadership in the Dioceses of Makurdi, Uyo, Ekiti Oke, and Awori.

The announcement was made by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, following the conclusion of the Episcopal Synod held during the Advance Episcopal Consultation at Our Saviour’s Chapel, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

According to a press release issued by Ven. Raphael A. Aderinwale, Director of Communications, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the newly elected bishops are:

• Ven. Dr. Godwin Tersoo Simon Yakela – Bishop-Elect, Diocese of Makurdi
• Ven. Dr. Kingsley Ogbonda – Bishop-Elect, Diocese of Uyo
• Ven. Dr. Julius Oyediran – Bishop-Elect, Diocese of Ekiti Oke
• Ven. Dr. Olayemi Fatusi – Bishop-Elect, Awori Diocese

Primate Ndukuba said the elections followed prayerful deliberations by members of the Episcopal Synod, reflecting the Church’s commitment to seeking God’s guidance in the selection of bishops who will provide spiritual leadership and pastoral oversight in their respective dioceses.

He further announced that the bishops-elect will be consecrated during the General Synod of the Church of Nigeria, scheduled to hold in the Diocese of Remo in September 2026.

The Primate called on members of the Church to uphold the bishops-elect in prayer, asking God to grant them wisdom, strength, humility, good health, and the grace to faithfully discharge the responsibilities of the episcopal office.

The election marks another significant milestone in the life and mission of the Church of Nigeria as the bishops-elect prepare to strengthen evangelism, provide spiritual oversight, and advance the work of the Anglican Communion in their respective dioceses.

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