‘The shepherd is for the sheep, not the sheep for the shepherd.’

Archbishop Sunday Ben Uko stands as a post-Civil War evangelist and church planter whose unwavering spiritual leadership and profound impact continue to shape communities. Called a shepherd and an archbishop in spirit and in truth, his life exemplifies servanthood and resilience amid national renewal. Archbishop Uko’s ministry exemplifies servant leadership rooted in humility, integrity, and authentic worship. His life is devoted to aligning with divine truth and serving others selflessly. Quoting, ‘the shepherd is for the sheep, not the sheep for the shepherd,’ Archbishop Uko models leadership that exists to nurture and protect followers. His episcopacy stands as a testament to missional leadership, contrasting with exploitative practices and emphasising the welfare of the flock as his enduring legacy.

Even in retirement as the Methodist Archbishop of Ikot Ekpene, Archbishop Uko continues to offer guidance and a model of sacrificial leadership. His consecration as bishop in 1993 and enthronement in 1994 were significant moments. His Eminence Sunday Mbang’s testimony about his godliness continues to inspire me. Archbishop Uko travels widely, carrying the gospel’s burden. His legacy is measured in lives touched, churches filled, and souls inspired. At 76, he continues to fight the good fight, run the race, and keep the faith.

Archbishop Uko emerged from the ashes of the Nigerian post-Civil War era and served as a tireless evangelist, passionate church planter, and bridge-builder in a fractured nation. Responding to broken hearts and ruined foundations, he spearheaded the establishment of over a dozen churches in war-affected communities. He also introduced Methodism to non-Methodist areas, notably by founding the congregation in Eket urban, which later became the diocesan headquarters, and by actively promoting reconciliation initiatives among divided groups.

Archbishop Uko remains a voice for restoration, believing change comes through transformation. He shares an uncompromising yet loving gospel, drawing many to faith. His ministry is shaped by his love for souls and conviction in the Gospel’s healing power. As a spiritual architect, he builds lasting foundations, shepherding congregations and training leaders so his work endures. Archbishop Uko embodies the biblical model of Christ the Good Shepherd, putting into practice what it means as a bishop to care for, guide, and protect his people, nurturing deeper relationships with Christ while upholding their dignity.

Born on 2 February 1950 at Mbioto II in the Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Archbishop Uko is the third of six children. His parents, late Elder Matthew Ben Uko and late Madam Akon Ekpe Akpabio, were devout Christians of Nung Uko. They instilled in him discipline, devotion to God, and the value of Christian service. He attended Mbioto II Town School and Mbioto Central School, finishing primary education with distinction in 1964. His passion for higher learning led him to study at the Methodist Theological Institute Sagamu (1977-1978) and the Methodist Theological Institute affiliated with the University of Port Harcourt (1979-1982). He completed leadership and management courses at Administrative Staff College (ASCON), Badagry; Cliff College in Nigeria and the UK; and higher management at Wesley University, Ondo.

In September 1969, at age 19, the late Rev. Okokon Mkpsong appointed Archbishop Uko as a church evangelist at the Methodist chapel in Ituk Mbang after recognising his gifts. After training, he became a pastor in 1978, was commissioned as a Deacon in 1982, and ordained as a Priest in 1985. He was appointed Presbyter in 1992 and elected Bishop in August 1993. He became an archbishop in 2006. His ministry began in the former Adiadia Circuit, including Uruan, Etoi, Ibesikpo Asutan, Nsit, and Iman Ikono Ibom groups, now forming much of the Archdiocese of Uyo. He served in: Oyubia Circuit Diocese of Calabar (1982-1985); Nsiak Circuit, Diocese of Ikot Ekpene (1985-1986); Iman Ikono Ibom Circuit, Diocese of Eket (1989-1991); Wesley Circuit Calabar (1992-1993); Pioneer Bishop of Diocese of Ikono (1994-2001); Bishop of Diocese of Ikot Ekpene (2001-2006); and Archbishop of Ikot Ekpene Archdiocese (2006-2019).

He was the supervising Archbishop of Enugu Archdiocese in 2019.; Supervising Archbishop of Umuahia Archdiocese 2016; Coordinating Archbishop of South-South comprising (Akwa Ibom, Cross Rivers, Rivers, Bayelsa State) for twelve years under His Eminence Dr Sunday Ola Makinde 2007-2013 and His Eminence Dr Sunday Samuel C. Uche 2013-2019. Archbishop Uko served as Chairman of the Governing Council, Methodist Theological Institute; Member of the Methodist Constitution Review Committee (2006); Chairman of the Planning Committee for the National/South-South/Zonal Conventions; and Chairman of the Conference Committee on the Screening of Tent-Making Ministers.

Archbishop Uko is a Life Member of the Bible Society of Nigeria, Chairman and Patron of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), and a member of the Advisory Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). He serves on the Advisory Board of Fathers of Faith for Good Governance, Akwa Ibom State, and as Patron and Acting Chairman of the Government House Prayer Team (2019-2023). He is a member of the Akwa Ibom State Christian Leadership Advisory Council (AKSLAC) and National Patron of the All-Methodist Brigade (AMB).

Archbishop Uko’s era and ministry witnessed a great transformation in infrastructure and physical development across the zone. Manpower development stood out; education and social services were given top priority. He was a man of courage and action, a good administrator, manager of people and resources. AWARDS AND HONOURS He is the recipient of various awards both within and outside FAMILY LIFE He is married to a very supportive wife, Elder Mrs Glory Sunday, and the marriage is blessed with children and grandchildren.

Celebrate Archbishop Uko—a living example of true missional leadership, unwavering integrity, and a shepherd devoted to the well-being of his flock above all.