Abuja, Nigeria – A new Christian chapel with a seating capacity of 750 is scheduled for inauguration at Nigeria's National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The event is expected to draw a host of high-profile political and religious leaders, marking a significant milestone for Christian legislators and staff within the legislative body.
Distinguished Guests Expected
The inauguration ceremony will be graced by several prominent figures, including former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo. Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon are also anticipated to attend. Other notable attendees will include Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); Bishop Francis Oke, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN); and Bishop Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, alongside various other Christian leaders and policymakers.
Project Background and Purpose
The non-denominational worship center project was initiated in May 2019 during the tenure of Yakubu Dogara as Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Christian Legislators Fellowship of the National Assembly is organizing the dedication. According to a joint statement by Senator Binus Yaroe, President of the Fellowship, and Hon. Bamidele Salam, Secretary, the occasion represents 'a milestone that will foster deeper spiritual bonds within the legislative community.' The chapel is intended to serve as a dedicated space for worship, fellowship, and prayer, aiming to foster unity, moral reflection, and faith-based support among members of the legislative community.
Ensuring Religious Parity
The establishment of the new Christian chapel addresses a long-standing need for a dedicated worship space for Christian lawmakers and staff. While a mosque has historically existed within the National Assembly premises to cater to Muslim members, Christian legislators previously relied on temporary venues for their services and meetings. Advocates for the project emphasized that providing a permanent, non-denominational chapel would ensure parity and promote religious inclusion within the legislative complex.
A Moment of Spiritual Reflection
The inauguration ceremony is expected to be a moment of 'thanksgiving and spiritual reflection,' bringing together diverse Christian leaders and dignitaries. The event is anticipated to draw wide attention as a unifying moment for faith and governance in Nigeria, highlighting the importance of spiritual activities within the nation's legislative arm.
6 Comments
Muchacho
This isn't unity; it's further entrenching religious divides within a supposedly secular government.
Habibi
It's commendable that Christian legislators now have a permanent place of worship, similar to the existing mosque. Yet, I wonder about the cost implications and whether these resources could have been better spent on pressing national issues.
Noir Black
The National Assembly should focus on governance, not building chapels. What about separation of church and state?
Eugene Alta
Ensuring religious parity is crucial. Great to see this chapel inaugurated.
Katchuka
This initiative aims to foster unity and spiritual bonds, which sounds positive. However, I worry that such overt religious projects within government institutions might inadvertently deepen religious divides rather than bridge them effectively.
Loubianka
While it's good that all faiths have a place to worship, I hope this doesn't blur the lines between religion and state. Governance needs to remain neutral.