By Samson Adeyanju
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday flagged off the construction of an Ecumenical Christian Chapel and Pilgrimage Centre at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, with CAN President Daniel Okoh and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, leading the charge.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Okoh described the project as a landmark initiative and a key legacy of CAN’s 50th anniversary, noting that it is expected to be completed and dedicated in October 2026.
He said the chapel and pilgrimage centre would provide a sacred space for travellers, pilgrims, and airport personnel to pray, reflect, and find spiritual renewal, stressing that airports are crossroads of human experiences that require such spiritual support.
Okoh commended the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, for approving and allocating the project site, as well as Akume for coordinating efforts toward the successful take off of the initiative.
He also called for continued support and timely fulfilment of pledges to ensure the project’s completion as scheduled.
In his remarks, Akume described the project as a symbol of the fusion of faith and national development, noting that it represents more than a physical structure but a sanctuary of hope and a refuge for spiritual reflection.
He disclosed that the project is estimated at N25 billion, adding that it aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to improving passenger experience and upgrading infrastructure in the aviation sector.
According to him, the centre will serve as a place where travellers can reconnect with God amid the pressures of modern life, while also promoting unity, compassion, and shared national values.
The event attracted top government officials, religious leaders, and stakeholders, marking the formal commencement of what organisers described as a legacy project aimed at strengthening spiritual presence within Nigeria’s aviation space.
