Biography of The Bishop of the Diocese of Awgu/Aninri – The Rt. Rev. Dr. Benson Chukwunweike

Olafare Michael Oluwabukola
June 23, 2025
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The Rt. Rev. Dr. Benson Chukwunweike is the current Bishop of the Diocese of Awgu/Aninri in the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion. A native of Isu-Awaa, a town in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, his early life was shaped by the frequent relocations of his father, the late Inspector W. A. Chukwunweike, a respected member of the Nigeria Police Force. These movements meant he attended multiple primary schools before continuing his education at St. Theresa College, Nsukka, where he successfully obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC).

His academic journey in communication began at the former Anambra State University of Technology (ASUTECH), where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communication. He later proceeded to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where he obtained a Master of Science degree in Mass Communication—an achievement that marked his deep engagement in the intersection of media and ministry.

Bishop Chukwunweike also pursued rigorous theological education. He received a Diploma in Theology from St. Francis of Assisi Theological College, Wusasa, and further advanced his theological formation with a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary, Abeokuta. In recognition of his theological contributions, he was conferred the Fellow of the Academy of Theology (FAT). His passion for the sociological dimensions of religion culminated in the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Sociology of Religion from Paul University, Awka.

His ordination journey began in 2006 when he was made a Deacon, followed by his Priesthood in 2007, and preferment as Canon in 2013—all by the Rt. Rev. Prof. G.I.N. Okpala, then Bishop of Nnewi Diocese. During his years of impactful ministry in the Diocese of Nnewi, Bishop Chukwunweike served in various pastoral and administrative capacities. These include: Principal of Bishop Uzodike Memorial Seminary, Nnewi, Chaplain of the Young Anglican Crusaders (YAC), and member of both the Diocesan Bible Study and Evangelism Committees. He also served as Vicar in multiple parishes, building strong faith communities under his leadership.

In 2020, he was elected and consecrated as the Bishop of Awgu/Aninri Diocese, a role in which he continues to serve with distinction, passion, and spiritual depth. Bishop Chukwunweike is known for his pastoral care, administrative excellence, theological insight, and commitment to the Great Commission.

He is married to his beloved wife, Dr. Mrs. Pedrone Ifeoma Chukwunweike (fondly called Nnechichetara), a devoted educationist. Their union is blessed with three godly children: Great, Bethel, and Crown.