Bishop John Ocheogwu Dickson

With heavy hearts, Friendship Church International announces the homegoing of our spiritual father, God’s General, and The General Overseer Bishop John O Dickson

As he rests with the Lord, the Church remains steadfast, continuing his legacy, the mission, vision and ministry with unwavering faith and dedication.

Service & Arrangement Details:

Date: Saturday, April 11th, 2026

Time: 10:00 AMCST
(Please note: the stream will go live a few minutes prior to the start time)

There are two streams Celebration of Life & Ministry and The Committal & Final Resting Service

Livestream Information:

Click the stream button to watch

Biography:

In Loving Memory of Bishop John Ocheogwu Dickson

July 17, 1956 – February 21, 2026

Bishop John Ocheogwu Dickson, 69, of Houston, Texas, passed on to be with the Lord on February 21, 2026. Born in Kaduna State, Nigeria, on July 17, 1956, to the late Aduma Dickson and Janet Emo. He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Esther Onyela Dickson, as well as his children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces, and nephews, all of whom he cherished deeply. He lived a life profoundly devoted to his family, faith, ministry, and service to God and His people.

Life and Ministry

Bishop Dickson learned the value of diligence and responsibility early in life following the passing of his father when he was just nine years old. By the age of fifteen, he began working as a salesperson with Lever Brothers, a time he often recalled with fond stories. He later worked with Arewa Textiles, where he proudly played professional soccer for the company’s team, before concluding his corporate career with the Rofco Company.

It was during his time at Rofco that Bishop Dickson had a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. He often testified to his "Meeting Jesus" experience: previously a practicing Muslim preparing to travel to Mecca, he fell ill with a severe and treatment-resistant case of yellow fever. Through the witness of a Christian brother who made Jesus real to him, he surrendered his life to Christ, and the illness miraculously disappeared.

Following this transformation, he devoted himself to comparing the Bible and the Qur’an daily, eventually discerning a wholehearted call to ministry. He received his foundational biblical training at the International Bible Training Centre (IBTC) in Lagos under Deeper Life Church—training he credited as the pillar of his faith. While serving in Kaduna, Brother Inyang Achibong entrusted him with the leadership of Christ Foundation Ministry, which he faithfully pastored until 1987. It was there he met his beloved Esther, who would become his lifelong partner in marriage and ministry. While pastoring at Christ Foundation Ministry, he served as a football (soccer) coach to many young men at the YMCA, using the platform as an avenue to share the message of Christ. Through this outreach, many souls were won to the Lord.

In his love for God and his assignment on earth, his love for his wife and children—his family—was his anthem. Prayer was his way of life. Soul winning (evangelism) was a banner on his right hand, while discipleship was the other banner on the left. His love and burden for the members, whom he fondly called "my brethren," rested upon him daily. “I wish I can go home to see my brethren,” were his heartfelt words close to the end of 2025.

In 1985, Bishop Dickson relocated to Teaneck, New Jersey, attending Vocational Bible School. He soon met Bishop Donald Hilliard Jr. of Cathedral International in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, who later consecrated him as a Bishop. Bishop Dickson held him in the highest regard, calling him "The preacher who loves God, loves his people, and sacrificed so much for my bishopric."

Led by God, Bishop John Dickson founded Friendship Church International in Kaduna, Nigeria, in April 1987. The ministry’s reach expanded to Houston, Texas, in 1999, where he continued his pastoral leadership.

A lifelong learner, he pursued extensive theological and academic development. He was ordained and earned a Bachelor’s degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary while living with his family in Greenville, Kentucky. He subsequently earned an additional Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from Grand Canyon University. At the time of his passing, he was working toward completing his Ph.D. in Ministry.

The work of God was his life, and he devoted himself completely to the service of the Gospel. Outside of his ministry, he could often be found enjoying his favorite hobby, playing golf.

Bishop John Dickson’s legacy of dedication to the Gospel, his passion for teaching the Word of God, and his unwavering commitment to the Church will continue to inspire all who knew him.