The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on Saturday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a ₦25 billion Ecumenical Airport Chapel and Pilgrims Centre at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, in an event attended by prominent national figures, including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and former Oyo State Governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

The project, initiated by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, is expected to be completed and dedicated by October 2026.

Speaking at the event, Akume described the project as a historic and spiritually significant undertaking, noting that it represents a fusion of faith, national development, and human wellbeing.

“This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is deeply symbolic. It represents the confluence of faith and progress, and of spirituality and national development,” he said.

He explained that the facility would serve as a sanctuary for travellers, pilgrims, and airport workers, offering a space for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal amid the pressures of travel.

According to the SGF, the investment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to integrating spiritual and emotional wellbeing into infrastructure development.

“The transformation of our airports into spaces that cater not only to physical transit but also to emotional and spiritual wellbeing reflects a holistic approach to national development,” Akume stated.

He added that the project would stand as “a beacon of hope” and a reminder of the role of faith, unity, and shared values in nation-building.

In his welcome address, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the initiative as both timely and significant, noting that airports serve as crossroads of diverse human experiences.

“The establishment of a Christian Chapel and Pilgrimage Centre here will provide a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal for travellers, pilgrims, and airport personnel,” Okoh said.

He commended the Federal Government for its support, particularly the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, for approving the allocation of land within the airport premises.

Okoh also acknowledged the role of Akume in coordinating the project, as well as the backing of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, who served as Chief Launcher at the event.

The CAN President further praised key stakeholders, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Federal Capital Territory Administration, for providing an enabling environment for the project.

He urged Nigerians and stakeholders to support the initiative financially to ensure its timely completion.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we humbly appeal for your continued generosity and partnership so that this project may be completed as scheduled,” he said.

Also, Dame Comfort Chigbue, Secretary of the Ecumenical Airport Chapel and Pilgrims Centre Committee, reiterated the importance of the chapel for Christians and intending pilgrims.

She urged Nigerians to donate generously towards the completion of the project, which, she said, would meet the spiritual needs of Christians.

Dignitaries at the event included senior government officials, church leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic and aviation communities.

The planned chapel and pilgrims centre is expected to serve as an interdenominational Christian worship facility and a spiritual hub within Nigeria’s busiest airport, reinforcing the role of faith in public spaces and national life. (TRIBUNE)