Benson Idahosa Biography, Education, Career, Controversies, And Death
Benson Idahosa ( September 11, 1938- 12 March 1998) was born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He was a charismatic Pentecostal preacher and is widely regarded as the father of Pentecostalism in Nigeria. Idahosa dedicated his life to spreading the Christian faith and making a significant impact on the religious landscape of Nigeria.
In October 1968, Benson Idahosa officially inaugurated the Church of God Mission International, which had its beginnings as a small prayer group. Under his leadership, the church experienced rapid growth and became one of the prominent Pentecostal denominations in the country.
Benson Idahosa Profile
| Name | Archbishop Benson Idahosa |
| Real Name | Benson Andrew Idahosa |
| Date of Birth | 11 September 1938 |
| Death of Death | 12 March 1998 (60 years) |
| State of Origin | Edo State |
| Tribe | Igbo |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Pentecostal Preacher |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Wife | Margaret Idahosa |
| Copied from | contents101.com |
Educational Background
Benson Idahosa was born on 11 September 1938 in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. His educational background is characterized by a deep passion for the Christian faith. He attended various Bible schools and received ministerial training, equipping him for his future endeavors as a preacher and pastor.
Career
Archbishop Benson Idahosa’s career was marked by his passion for evangelism and his desire to spread the message of Christianity. In October 1968, he officially inaugurated the Church of God Mission International, which initially began as a small prayer group. Under his leadership, the church grew rapidly and became one of the prominent Pentecostal denominations in Nigeria.
Benson Idahosa was renowned for his dynamic preaching style and his emphasis on miracles, signs, and wonders. He traveled extensively, both within Nigeria and internationally, conducting evangelistic crusades and ministering to large crowds. His charismatic personality and powerful sermons attracted a wide following, and he played a crucial role in the growth of the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria.
Apart from his role as a preacher, Benson Idahosa was also an author and pastor. He wrote several books, including “Faith for All Life’s Storms” and “Taking Territories: A Handbook on Spiritual Warfare.” His writings provided guidance and inspiration to believers seeking to deepen their faith and live victoriously.
In recognition of his contributions to the Christian community, Benson Idahosa was ordained as a bishop in 1981. He also ordained several others, including Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church Worldwide in 1989. Through his mentorship and impartation, Idahosa influenced and empowered a new generation of Christian leaders.
Furthermore, Archbishop Benson Idahosa was a visionary leader who recognized the importance of education. In line with his vision, he founded Benson Idahosa University (BIU) in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The university was established to provide quality education with a strong Christian foundation. Today, BIU continues to thrive as a reputable institution, offering various academic programs to students.
Throughout his career, Archbishop Benson Idahosa left an indelible mark on the Nigerian religious landscape. His commitment to spreading the gospel, his focus on faith and miracles, and his establishment of educational institutions have had a lasting impact on generations of believers in Nigeria and beyond.
Controversies
During his lifetime, Archbishop Benson Idahosa faced some controversies. One of the notable controversies was related to his claim of raising eight people from the dead. This claim came under scrutiny when challenged by the Advertising Standards Authority, who demanded evidence that the individuals in question had actually been dead. Ultimately, Idahosa had to drop this claim due to the lack of substantial evidence.
Personal Life
Idahosa was married to Margaret Idahosa, who played a significant role in his ministry. They had four children together, including their son Bishop F.E.B. Idahosa. Margaret Idahosa took over as the Archbishop of the Church of God Mission International (CGMI) and became the Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University after her husband’s death.
Benson Idahosa Net Worth
Although Archbishop Benson Idahosa was a well-known figure in the religious community, he was estimated to be worth approximately during his lifetime.
Death
Archbishop Benson Idahosa passed away on 12 March 1998 in Benin City, Nigeria. His death left a significant void in the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria and beyond. Despite his physical departure, his teachings and influence continue to inspire and shape the lives of many believers.
