Anthony Olubunmi Okogie

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Cardinal Okogie's achievements are measured in spiritual authority and historical impact rather than commercial success. He was the second Nigerian ever to be elevated to the College of Cardinals, a distinction reserved for the highest-ranking clergy. His tenure as Archbishop of Lagos spanned nearly forty years, one of the longest in the archdiocese's history. The Triple Jubilee celebrated in 2026 marked a rare confluence of milestones: 90 years of life, 60 years of priesthood, and 55 years of episcopal ordination. His legacy includes the establishment of numerous schools and charitable institutions, providing tangible aid to the poor and supporting education in Lagos.

Anthony Olubunmi Okogie receiving an award

AwardsWhile Okogie has not won entertainment industry awards, he holds significant ecclesiastical honors. He was created a Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003, becoming the second Nigerian cardinal in history. He received the title of Cardinal-Priest of Beata Vergine Maria del Monte Carmelo a Mostacciano. In 2026, he was honored with a Triple Jubilee recognition by the Vatican and the Nigerian Church, with Pope Leo XIV personally praising his witness of faith. He is also recognized for founding numerous schools and charitable institutions in Lagos.

Honours & Distinctions

Cardinal-Priest of Beata Vergine Maria del Monte Carmelo a Mostacciano

Vatican·2003

Elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope John Paul II

Archbishop Emeritus of Lagos

Roman Catholic Church·2012

Title granted upon retirement after serving as Archbishop for nearly 40 years

Triple Jubilee Celebration

Vatican & Nigerian Church·2026

Honored for 90th birthday, 60th priestly, and 55th episcopal anniversaries

Records & Feats

Second Nigerian Cardinal

Historic First·2003

Became the second person from Nigeria to be elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2003

Longest Tenure as Archbishop of Lagos

Career Milestone·2012

Served as Archbishop from 1973 to 2012, a period of nearly four decades