Meet Father Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, the Nigerian-born priest to become Britain’s first Black saint

Father Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, a Nigerian-born Catholic priest, is poised to become Britain’s first Black saint.

Tansi, who was born in September 1903 in Aguleri, Nigeria, grew up during a time of British colonial influence, with the Royal Niger Company controlling the region’s palm oil trade.

According to the BBC, his family faced significant hardship when his father, Tabansi, was taken hostage during a conflict between the local villagers and the company. Though his father was later released, the experience left a lasting mark on Tansi’s upbringing, as his family was heavily struck by the conflict.

Tansi, raised in a poor farming family, lost sight in one eye as a child. His father, seeking a better future for his son, enrolled him at Holy Trinity School in Onitsha, where Tansi was baptized in 1913 with the Christian name Michael. He served as an altar boy and catechist, eventually becoming a teacher and later the headmaster of St. Joseph’s School in Aguleri.

In 1925, Tansi entered St. Paul’s Seminary in Igbariam and was ordained in 1937 for the Archdiocese of Onitsha. Known for his humility, Tansi built his own home, traveled through harsh conditions to serve his parishioners, and consistently helped the poor. He became an advocate for the protection of women and children, and his dedication led to several community-building projects.

In 1950, Tansi made a pilgrimage to Rome and was later sent to Mount St. Bernard Abbey in England. He spent the remainder of his life there, living a devout and simple life until his death in 1964 at Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Father Tansi was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1998, a major step toward sainthood. For canonization, two miracles must be attributed to him. One reported miracle occurred when a Nigerian woman prayed to Tansi and was healed of a tumor according to Mount Saint Bernard.

On August 31, hundreds gathered at Mount St. Bernard Abbey to celebrate Tansi’s life. Father Nicolas Palmer, guest master at the abbey, described him as having “lived a very holy life.” His potential canonization would make him Britain’s first Black saint, a historic moment deeply anticipated by many who believe he truly deserves this selection.

Supporters from Leeds and Leicester believe Tansi’s sainthood would be a profound recognition of his legacy, further solidifying his impact both in life and in faith.