Rt. Revd. Dr. Johnson Akinwamide to Retire February 2026, Calls for Stronger Church Expansion
The Rt. Revd. Dr. Johnson Akinwamide, Pioneer Bishop of the Awori Diocese of the Anglican Communion, has announced his retirement from active episcopal service, scheduled for February 2026.
The revered cleric made this known during a press conference held at the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Ota, Ogun State, where he reflected on his years of service, personal milestones, and the future of the church within the diocese.
Speaking with journalists, Bishop Akinwamide disclosed that he holds the distinction of being the first Anglican bishop to obtain a Doctorate degree (PhD) in Old Testament Studies, describing the achievement as a testament to the importance of sound theological education and continuous learning among clergy.
“I believe it is good for the public and the church to know that I was the first person to earn a PhD in Old Testament Studies within the Anglican episcopacy,” he said, adding that academic excellence strengthens the quality of leadership and biblical interpretation in the church.
As the pioneer bishop of the Awori Diocese, Rt. Revd. Akinwamide highlighted the significant progress recorded since the creation of the diocese, noting improvements in clergy training, parish development, and administrative structures. However, he stressed that more work remains to be done, particularly in the area of church expansion.
He specifically pointed to Ilogbo axis of the diocese, stating that the area has the capacity to accommodate at least five Anglican churches due to its growing population and spiritual needs.
“Ilogbo is expanding rapidly. The Anglican Church must be proactive, that area alone can conveniently sustain five Anglican churches if we are deliberate and committed,” he said.
The bishop called on church leaders, stakeholders, and the incoming leadership to prioritize evangelism, church planting, and infrastructural development, emphasizing that the growth of the church must match the growth of communities within the diocese.
Rt. Revd. Dr. Akinwamide also used the opportunity to express gratitude to God, the clergy, and members of the diocese for their support throughout his tenure, assuring them that even in retirement, he would continue to contribute to the work of God through mentorship, teaching, and advisory roles.
His retirement in February 2026 is expected to mark the end of a remarkable chapter in the Awori Diocese, defined by pioneering leadership, academic excellence, and a strong vision for sustainable church growth.
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