William Okoye, former Aso Villa chaplain, passes away, CAN expresses condolences

The Founder and General Overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) and former Chaplain of the Aso Villa Chapel, Reverend William Okoye, has passed away.

A statement from Godwin Tsee, who spoke for the Board of Trustees and the National Executive Council of ACFM, said Mr Okoye died peacefully on Wednesday, 15 July.

The statement called him a faithful servant of God who dedicated his life to helping others.

Mr Okoye served as Chaplain of the Aso Villa Chapel under former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. He played an important role in growing the church and the Christian ministry.

The mission encouraged members of ACFM and the larger Christian community to stay strong in faith and united in love and prayer after the loss of their founder.

The statement expressed hope that God would support the church and its members during this time.

It also mentioned that the leadership of the mission was working with Mr Okoye’s family to plan a tribute to his life and ministry.

Details about the funeral and burial will be shared through the official channels of the mission.

The late reverend is survived by children, including Victor Okoye, who works as a journalist with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has shared its sorrow over Mr Okoye's death.

In a statement from CAN President Daniel Okoh, an archbishop, the association offered heartfelt condolences to Mr Okoye’s widow, Toyin Okoye, his children, and the entire Christian community in Nigeria.

Mr Okoh called the late cleric a dedicated servant of God who spent his life preaching the Gospel, mentoring leaders, and working hard for the unity and growth of the Church.

“His service to the body of Christ went beyond his own ministry.

“He was Chairman of CAN, FCT Chapter, Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), FCT Chapter, and later served as CAN National Director on National Issues and Social Welfare,” he said.

Mr Okoh noted that Mr Okoye made significant contributions to strengthening the Christian presence in Nigeria and promoting engagement on issues affecting the Church and society.

He also highlighted Mr Okoye’s impressive national service, pointing out that he served the country in various important roles.

“Rev. Okoye also served the nation with great distinction as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs, the National Political Reform Conference, the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, and as Chaplain to two Presidents of Nigeria and Head of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel,” he said.

Mr Okoh added that the late cleric’s dedication to nation-building showed his belief that faith should have a positive impact on society.

Paying tribute to Mr Okoye’s character, the CAN president described him as a humble servant of God who performed his duties with wisdom, grace, and commitment.

“He was deeply dedicated to the unity of the Church and was always ready to offer his thoughts and experience when needed.

“His guidance, calm nature, and passion for advancing God’s Kingdom will be greatly missed,” he said.

While remembering Mr Okoye, Mr Okoh encouraged Christians to thank God for his life of service.

He prayed that God would comfort the grieving family, ACFM, and all who mourn, giving them strength to handle the loss.