Nigerian Bishop Becomes Archbishop After 27 Years of Service

For 27 years, Bishop Francis Olubowale Oke turned down the title of Archbishop, choosing instead to focus on what mattered most to him: preaching and mentoring others. That humility is exactly what made him worthy of the honor he finally accepted this week.

The Calvary Grace International College of Bishops elevated Oke to Archbishop during the annual Holy Ghost Convention in Ibadan, Nigeria. As President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and leader of Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Oke has spent nearly three decades building up other spiritual leaders across the globe.

Since becoming a bishop in 1999, Oke has participated in consecrating bishops worldwide and provided guidance to over 50 bishops associated with the Calvary Grace International College. Bishop Julius Abiola called him "a father of fathers, pastor of pastors and bishop of bishops" during the elevation ceremony.

The honor recognizes more than just time served. The College praised Oke's longevity, stability, and faithfulness in ministry, noting that his influence extends far beyond Nigeria's borders.

Bishop Felix Adejumo, who proclaimed the elevation, highlighted how Oke has identified, nurtured, mentored, and commissioned countless spiritual leaders throughout his career. His ministry has become what the College calls "an episcopacy that has produced episcopacies."

When Oke finally accepted the title, he acknowledged it as "a call to greater responsibility in advancing the cause of Christ globally." He explained that since his consecration in 1999, he had repeatedly declined similar offers, preferring to concentrate on evangelism.

The Ripple Effect

Oke's elevation represents more than one man's achievement. His decades of mentorship have created a network of spiritual leaders who continue spreading his example of humble service around the world.

The College emphasized that his new role carries greater responsibility for spiritual fatherhood, unity, and preserving the integrity of the Church. They urged him to strengthen fellow believers, encourage bishops, and raise up the next generation of faithful servants.

In accepting, Oke expressed gratitude while emphasizing the College's commitment to integrity. He noted that prospective bishops undergo thorough examination before consecration, ensuring only those with proven character and impactful ministries are admitted.

Sometimes the greatest honors come to those who never sought them, but simply did the work that needed doing.