Nigerian Priest Dies In US After Order To Return Home
A Nigerian Catholic priest based in the United States, Reverend Benjamin Okwy Madu, has died at the age of 54, days after he was directed to return to Nigeria following the expiration of his religious worker visa.
Madu died on July 2, 2026, at his residence in Lynnfield, Massachusetts, where he had been serving as a hospital chaplain and parish priest since 2021 under the Archdiocese of Boston. His death has sent shockwaves through the Catholic community in both the United States and Nigeria.
According to reports, the priest’s religious worker visa was due to expire on July 29, 2026, but his home Diocese of Abakaliki had instructed him to return to Nigeria ahead of a new pastoral assignment scheduled to begin on August 4, 2026.
Sources familiar with the matter said Madu had repeatedly expressed fear about returning to Nigeria, citing concerns for his personal safety. Those close to him also disclosed that he was deeply distressed over the prospect of leaving the community where he had ministered for several years.
The Archdiocese of Boston confirmed his death and described him as a dedicated priest whose ministry touched many lives, while church leaders offered prayers and condolences to his family, friends and parishioners.
His death has sparked conversations within the Catholic community about the pressures faced by foreign clergy serving abroad, including immigration challenges, pastoral responsibilities and emotional well-being.
Church authorities in both Nigeria and the United States are expected to continue consultations regarding funeral arrangements, while members of his former parish have continued to pay tribute to the late priest for his years of service and commitment to the faith.