The Remarkable Life and Legacy of Benson Andrew Idahosa

In the early days of his Christian journey, Archbishop Benson Idahosa put his faith into action. After hearing his pastor say that Christians could raise the dead in Jesus’ name, Benson believed it wholeheartedly. He set out on a bold mission to find a dead person to raise. Riding his bicycle through Benin, he searched for hours. Finally, he found a grieving father who had just lost his daughter. With great faith, Benson approached the man and said, “The God whom I serve can bring your baby back to life.” After the father agreed, Benson prayed over the lifeless body. “Arise in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ,” he declared. To everyone’s amazement, the dead child sneezed and came back to life. This miracle marked the beginning of a ministry that would touch millions of lives.

Benson Idahosa was born on September 11, 1938, in Benin City, Nigeria, to pagan parents. His early life was filled with hardship. As a sickly child, he often fainted, leading his father to order his mother to throw him away. At just 18 months old, he was left for dead on a rubbish heap. Despite being rejected by his father, sent to work as a servant, and denied education, Benson’s life was far from over. He later worked at Bata Shoe Company while studying correspondence courses from Britain and the U.S.

Benson’s conversion happened dramatically one Sunday afternoon while playing football. He met Pastor Okpo, who led him to Christ, making him the first Bini member of Pastor Okpo’s congregation. As a new believer, Benson’s zeal for the gospel grew. He began evangelizing, spreading the message of salvation in villages around Benin City.

Benson’s call to ministry came through a night vision. God’s voice declared, “I have called you to take the gospel around the world in my name, preach the gospel, and I will confirm my word with signs following.” This divine encounter marked the start of a global ministry focused on preaching and miracles. Benson’s life became dedicated to spreading the gospel and interceding for the lost.

Benson’s ministry quickly expanded. He founded Church of God Mission International in Benin City, Nigeria. By 1971, he had established over 6,000 churches across Nigeria and Ghana. His influence reached far beyond Africa, with ministry in over 123 countries worldwide. Benson held leadership roles in several organizations, including president of All Nations for Christ Bible Institute and Idahosa World Outreach.

He also earned impressive academic credentials, including a diploma in divinity from Christ for the Nations Institute and a Doctorate of Divinity from the Word of Faith College. Benson was a respected leader in both local and global Christian circles.

Soul-winning was the core of Benson’s ministry. His motto, “Evangelism our Supreme Task,” drove him to reach the unreached with the gospel. Through large-scale crusades, radio, television broadcasts, and Bible schools, he reached millions. In 1985, his Lagos Crusade drew nearly one million attendees per night.

His influence grew with the establishment of Redemption Television Ministry, which reached a potential audience of 50 million people. Benson’s crusades and seminars extended to countries such as Sweden, Singapore, and Australia, making a significant impact worldwide.

Benson’s ministry inspired leaders worldwide. Mrs. Gordon Freda Lindsay, President of Christ for the Nations Inc., said, “I know of no young black in all of Africa who is reaching millions like Benson.” His burden for souls, ministry of healing, and miracles demonstrated his divine calling.

Dr. Ben Akosa remarked that Benson was a man of solutions. People came to him with problems and left with miraculous answers. His reputation spread far beyond Benin City, with his miracle cathedral seating over 10,000 people. Daniel Orris, a leader who worked closely with Benson, described him as a man whose global influence reached every corner of the earth.

Benson’s success came from his strong faith in God. He firmly believed that “all things are possible to him who believes.” His ministry was fueled by a life of prayer, study of the Word, and complete trust in God’s promises. Benson also learned from the success stories of others, applying these principles to his life and ministry. His hard work, humility, and wisdom made him an exceptional leader in the body of Christ.

By the time of his death in 1998, Archbishop Benson Idahosa had impacted over seven million lives. His legacy continues to influence the church today. Through the churches he planted, the institutions he established, and the souls he reached, his ministry lives on.

Benson’s life is a testament to God’s power to transform anyone—regardless of their background—into a vessel for great things. His unwavering faith, dedication to soul-winning, and commitment to miracles show that God uses those who trust Him completely to accomplish incredible works for His kingdom.