» GOSPEL LEGEND AWARD - POSTHUMOUS

Archbishop Benson Idahosa, who founded the Church of God Mission International, was hailed as the father of Pentecostalism in Nigeria. He is also the founder of Benson Idahosa University (BIU), which is located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria now presided over by his son, Bishop F.E.B. Idahosa who also holds a number of leadership positions, including Vice President of All Nations for Christ Bible Institute International, President of Big Ben's Children Hospital among other positions.
In 1971, James Gordon Lindsey and Pa Elton commissioned him into ministry and was ordained a Bishop in 1981. Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church Worldwide was one of several people he ordained in 1989.
Arch Bishop Benson Idahosa passed away on March 12, 1998,. His wife Margaret Idahosa and their four children survived him. The Christian organization, Church of God Mission International (CGMI) which he founded, is now led by his wife, who also serves as Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University.