The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has announced the appointment of The Venerable Barr. Festus Opara, PhD, as its new General Secretary.
The appointment was approved by the Primate, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry C. Ndukuba.
According to the Church of Nigeria’s Communications officer, Mr. Korede Akintunde, Ven. Opara succeeds the outgoing General Secretary, The Ven. Dr. Paul Dajur, who was recently elected the Bishop of the newly established Diocese of Keffi-Karshi Missionary Diocese last month.
Ven. Opara’s selection followed a rigorous and merit-based process where he emerged as the most suitable candidate due to his excellent performance.
As the chief administrative officer of the Church, the General Secretary is responsible for closely assisting the Primate in coordinating the Church’s national activities, communications, and governance, ensuring adherence to the Church of Nigeria’s Constitution and Canons.
Ven. Opara’s appointment is effective from Saturday, November 1, 2025.
Primate Ndukuba expressed his strong confidence that Ven. Opara’s passion, dedication, and wealth of experience will be a significant asset to the Church. He offered prayers for wisdom, grace, and strength for the new General Secretary to serve faithfully.
Ven. Opara holds a Ph.D. in Old Testament (Biblical Studies) Religious and Cultural Studies from University of Port Harcourt and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Imo.
He has served in many ecclesiastical positions ranging from Vicar at St. Peters Anglican Church, Ikenegbu to the Director of Global Institute for Theology and Mission (GITM), Anglican Diocese of Owerri. He is currently the Program Coordinator at the Institute for Theology Paul University Akwa.
