Cardinal Anthony Olubunmi Okogie is a former Archbishop of Lagos who has been an influential voice in Nigerian religious and social affairs, critical of both military and civilian governments, and an advocate for social justice, apostolic tradition and good governance.

Born on June 16, 1936, in Lagos, Nigeria, he hails from a royal family of Uromi in Edo State, with his father, Prince Michael Okojie, being the son of King Ogbidi Okojie of Uromi, and his mother, Lucy Adunni Okojie (née Afolabi), of Yoruba descent.

Okogie’s journey in the Church began with his education at various institutions, including Holy Cross School in Lagos, St. Patrick’s School in Sapele, St. Gregory’s College in Lagos, and seminaries in Ibadan. He furthered his studies at Urban University in Rome, where he obtained a licentiate in sacred theology.

Ordained priest on December 11, 1966, Okogie’s early career included serving as a pastoral assistant at the Holy Cross Cathedral in Lagos and as a chaplain in the Nigerian army during the Civil War. He also held positions as an instructor at King’s College and as the Director of Vocations for the Lagos Archdiocese.

Okogie’s rise through the Church hierarchy was swift. He was consecrated as the Titular Bishop of Mascula and Auxiliary Bishop of Oyo in 1971. Just two years later, in 1973, he was appointed Archbishop of Lagos, a position he held until his retirement in 2012.

Throughout his career, Cardinal Okogie has been an influential voice in Nigerian religious and social affairs. He served as President of the Christian Association of Nigeria and led the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria from 1994 to 2000. Known for his outspoken nature, he has been a vocal critic of both military and civilian governments, advocating for social justice and good governance.

On October 21, 2003, Pope John Paul II elevated Okogie to the rank of cardinal, making him the third Nigerian priest to receive this honor. As a Cardinal, he participated in the conclaves that elected both Pope Benedict XVI in 2005 and Pope Francis in 2013.

Cardinal Okogie has been recognized for his contributions to religious harmony and social justice, receiving awards such as the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award. Even in retirement, he remains a respected figure in the Nigerian Catholic Church and continues to be a voice for social conscience and positive change.