“Hard work, determination, and the grace of God are the bipods on which success is groomed. These are rare virtues associated with legends and men of proven integrity.” This belief has shaped my life and ministry, and I stand today as a testimony to what God can do with a willing vessel.
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I am Venerable Dr. Ikechukwu Joseph Okafor (JP), fondly known as Ochiliozua. I was born on the 1st of October, 1970—coincidentally, the same day Nigeria gained her independence—into a devout Anglican family from Ezinkwelle village, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. My father, Sir Gibson Chukwunweike Okafor (Akukalia Niger), is a Knight of St. Christopher, and my late grandfather, Mr. Joseph Okafor (Okafor Ndeni), was a retired catechist. My mother, Lady Elizabeth Nkiru Okafor (Slender Beauty), also a Lady Knight of St. Christopher, laid a strong spiritual and moral foundation for me.
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My journey began at Oreze Primary School, Onitsha, followed by secondary education at Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha. In 1988, I joined the Nigerian Army (Brigade, Onitsha Cantonment) and served until 1991, during which I received the divine call to ministry.
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My early ministry began at St. Luke’s Church, Uke, as a church teacher. After my first service there, the church gifted me a white fowl. I decided to share the cooked meal with my Vicar, Ven. J.O. Obazie, who was moved by the gesture and called me Ochiliozua, meaning “One Who Gathers and Feeds.” Since that day in 1991, the name has followed me, and I carry it proudly as a symbol of humility and divine provision.
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Despite facing physical and spiritual challenges, including being violated by masquerades in Uke, I remained undeterred. My resilience was nurtured through the storms of life, and like the biblical Joseph, I trusted God to turn every trial into triumph.
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In 1995, I earned a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) in Business Education from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. In 1996, through the support of my mentor, His Lordship, Rt. Revd. Prof. G.I.N. Okpala (JP, OON), I enrolled at St. Paul’s University College, Awka (now Paul University), where I obtained a Diploma in Theology. I was ordained a deacon in 1998 and priested in 1999.
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I married my heartthrob, Princess Nkiru Ngozi Okafor (JP), a strong, educated woman and a staff of the Anambra State Judiciary. She holds an HND in Business Administration and Management, a PDGE, and is currently pursuing her M.Sc. in the same field. God blessed our union with four wonderful children: Junior Ikechukwu, Eberechukwu, Kenechukwu (of blessed memory), and Chinazaekpere.
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Academically, I pursued knowledge with passion:
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B.Sc. in Sociology and Anthropology – Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
B.Th and M.Th in Theology, M.A in Sociology of Religion – Paul University, Awka
Doctorate in Religious Studies – Atlas University, Philadelphia, USA
I am meticulous and deeply committed to detail, which has led to success in the literary world.
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I have authored several books, including:

Freedom for Service
The You in You (Evolutionary Perspective)
Faulty Foundations
Water of Life
Power to Be Fruitful
The Place of an Anglican Minister in Our Liturgy
In addition to writing, I ventured into gospel music and have released three albums:
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Enyim Oma Vol. 1
This God of War… Vol. 1 & 2
I’ve had the privilege of visiting the Holy Land (Jerusalem) twice—2008 and 2012. I was preferred Canon in 2009 and Canon Administrator in 2011. In 2012, I was collated as Archdeacon and currently serve as Vicar/Archdeacon of Oraifite Archdeaconry, Diocese of Nnewi.
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I have also served the church in various capacities:
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Diocesan Chaplain – Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade
Bishop’s Examining Chaplain (Member & Chairman)
Chaplain Corps Anambra State Command – Deputy State Commander
Member of several theological, liturgical, and spiritual committees
Throughout my ministry, I’ve remained passionate about preaching, healing, and deliverance—destroying the works of the devil through the power of the Holy Spirit. I am a disciplinarian, yet approachable; deeply spiritual, yet grounded; always guided by duty and a heart for God’s people.
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I attribute all I am today to God’s grace and the mentorship of His Grace, The Most Revd. Prof. G.I.N. Okpala and his wife, Lady Eugenia Okpala. My gratitude also goes to The Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi and his wife, Mrs. Ukamaka Obi, for their unrelenting support.
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As I continue to serve in God’s vineyard, I remain confident that posterity will say, “He was once here,” for I have dedicated my life to purpose, faith, and service.
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All glory be to God.