John Ocheogwu Dickson

He was born in Kaduna State, Nigeria on July 17th, 1956.

His parents (both are late):

Father: Aduma Dickson

Mother: Janet Emo

Married to Esther Onyela Dickson for 41 years

He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces and nephews

Life and Ministry of Bishop John Dickson

Bishop John Dickson began working early in life following the passing of his father when he was about nine years old. As a young teenager, he learned the value of diligence and responsibility. At about the age of fifteen, he began working with Lever Brothers as a salesperson, and he often fondly shared stories of those early years.

He later worked with Arewa Textiles, where he also played professional football (soccer) for the company’s team. His final place of employment in the corporate world was with Rofco Company. It was during his time there that someone shared the Gospel with him, leading to a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ.

Bishop Dickson often spoke about what he called his “Meeting Jesus” experience. In his own words, he recounted that he had become a Muslim and was preparing to travel to Mecca. During that period, he was suffering from a severe illness—yellow fever—that had resisted treatment. Through the witness of a Christian brother who made Jesus real to him, he surrendered his life to Christ, and he testified that the illness immediately disappeared.

Following this transformative experience, Bishop Dickson devoted himself to studying and comparing the Bible and the Qur’an daily. In time, he discerned the call of God upon his life and answered it wholeheartedly. He later attended the International Bible Training Centre (IBTC) in Lagos under Deeper Life Church, where he received foundational biblical training that he often credited as the pillars of his faith throughout his life.

While serving in Kaduna, Brother Inyang Achibong—popularly known as Brother Achi—entrusted him with the leadership of Christ Foundation Ministry. Bishop Dickson faithfully pastored the ministry until 1987. It was also within this ministry that he met Esther Onyela Ekre, who later became his beloved wife and partner in life and ministry.

In 1985, Bishop Dickson relocated to Teaneck, New Jersey, where he attended Vocational Bible School. During his time in New Jersey, he met Bishop Donald Hilliard Jr. of Cathedral International in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Bishop Hilliard later consecrated him as a Bishop. Bishop Dickson often spoke of him with great respect, referring to him as “the preacher who loves God, loves his people, and sacrificed so much for my bishopric.”

Under the direction of God, Bishop Dickson founded Friendship Church International in Kaduna, Nigeria in April 1987. The ministry later expanded to Houston, Texas in 1999, where he continued his pastoral work and leadership.

Bishop Dickson pursued theological and academic development throughout his life. He received his ordination and earned a Bachelor’s degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary while living with his family in Greenville, Kentucky. He later earned an additional Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU). At the time of his passing, he was working toward completing his Ph.D. in Ministry.

The work of God was truly his life, and he devoted himself wholeheartedly to the service of the Gospel and the people of God. Outside of ministry, he enjoyed playing golf, which was his favorite hobby.

Bishop John Dickson lived a life devoted to faith, ministry, and service to God and His people. His legacy of dedication to the Gospel, his passion for teaching the Word of God, and his commitment to the Church will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Celebration of Life will be held at Forest Park South Funeral Home, 12650 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland, TX 77584, US, on April 11, 2026, @ 10:00 am

A Committal Service will take place at Houston Memorial Gardens, 2426 Cullen Blvd, Pearland, TX 77581, US, on April 11, 2026, @12:00 pm