Most Rev. Dr. Hilary Paul Odilinyechukwu Okeke was born into a devout Catholic family and enjoyed a nurturing childhood surrounded by the love of his parents, siblings, and extended family. His maternal grandmother, Lolo Ndiomalake Okonkwo (later baptized as Maria), played a significant role in shaping his early spiritual formation. Raised in an ecumenical and cosmopolitan environment, young Hilary grew up in a community where Catholic and Anglican families coexisted harmoniously.
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Early Education
Hilary began his education in 1952 at St. Peter Claver’s Catholic School, Utuh, and was deeply influenced by his teacher and mentor, Mr. Emmanuel O. Obi. Despite health challenges that delayed his progress, he excelled academically, developing a love for reading through the guidance of his teachers. His early schooling laid the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
In 1959, he passed entrance exams for two prestigious schools but remained in primary school to complete his First School Leaving Certificate. In 1960, he gained admission to Christ the King College, Onitsha, but opted to join All Hallows Seminary, Onitsha, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Godfrey Mary Paul Okoye. His decision to pursue the priesthood was influenced by his prophetic birth name, Odilinyechukwu (“If he survives, he will be given to God”).
Seminary Formation
Hilary began his seminary journey at All Hallows Seminary in 1961, where he demonstrated both academic brilliance and creative talents. He was actively involved in carpentry, printing, and dramatic arts, playing key roles in theatrical productions. He earned his General Certificate of Education (GCE) at both Ordinary and Advanced levels before moving on to philosophical and theological studies at Bigard Memorial Seminary during the Nigerian Civil War. Despite the hardships of the war, he completed his formation and was ordained a deacon on September 16, 1973.
Ordination and Early Ministry
On April 20, 1974, Hilary Okeke was ordained a priest by Archbishop Francis Arinze (now Cardinal) at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Onitsha. He celebrated his first Mass at St. Peter Claver’s Church, Utuh, becoming the third Catholic priest from his town. His first assignment was the challenging task of establishing Ogbaru Parish, where he served with youthful zeal and innovation, earning the affectionate title Nna Ora (Father of All).
Advanced Studies and Canon Law Expertise
In 1978, he was sent to Rome to study Canon Law at the Pontifical Urban University, where he earned his doctoral degree. His dissertation focused on ecumenical law, exploring the juridical status of baptized non-Catholics. During his time in Rome, he gained practical experience in tribunal work and interacted with leading canonists worldwide. He returned to Nigeria in 1982, serving as Judicial Vicar of Onitsha Archdiocese and later as a Senior Lecturer at the Catholic Institute of West Africa.
Leadership Roles
Msgr. Okeke held various leadership positions within the Archdiocese of Onitsha, including Vicar General, Episcopal Vicar for the Clergy, and President of the Onitsha Archdiocesan Priests’ Association. He played a pivotal role in reorganizing the Ecclesiastical Tribunal and training canonists. His expertise in Canon Law earned him recognition both locally and internationally, including membership in Canon Law Societies in Nigeria and abroad.
Episcopal Appointment and Service as Bishop
On November 29, 2001, Pope John Paul II appointed Msgr. Hilary Okeke as the first Bishop of the newly created Diocese of Nnewi. He was ordained a bishop on February 10, 2002, by Archbishop Osbaldo Padilla at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi. Inspired by the examples of St. Hilary of Poitiers and St. Paul of Tarsus, Bishop Okeke adopted the motto, “By His grace, I am what I am” (1 Cor. 15:10), reflecting his deep gratitude for God’s providence in his life.
Legacy and Contributions
As Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Hilary Okeke has been a dynamic leader, emphasizing pastoral care, evangelization, and education. His deep commitment to ecumenism, canon law, and the spiritual growth of his diocese has made him a respected figure in the Church and beyond. His extensive travels and interactions with global leaders in theology and canon law have further enriched his ministry, enabling him to serve as a bridge between the local and universal Church.
Bishop Okeke’s life and work are a testament to his unwavering faith, intellectual brilliance, and pastoral zeal.
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