Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has laid the foundation stone for the construction of a 1,000 capacity Ecumenical Centre in Umuagu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area.
The foundation laying ceremony, which was performed with the assistance of Bishop Chikezie Elekwa of the HolyGhost Day Bible Church, was attended by the governor’s wife, Mrs Priscilla Otti, Deputy Governor, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu and top government officials.
The Ecumenical Centre is expected to serve as a central worship and gathering facility for Christians in the state while also promoting unity among different denominations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Otti said the project had long been envisioned and represented part of the commitments his administration made upon assuming office.
He further disclosed that the land designated for the project had been acquired several years ago but had remained undeveloped.
“Like I said earlier, this centre was one of the things we had vowed to do when we came into office.
“This land where we are standing was acquired in 2009 and has somehow remained waiting for this day”, he added.
Providing an overview of the project, the contractor, Architect Onuka Ukwa, described the Ecumenical Centre as an ultra-modern worship facility designed to accommodate Christians from various denominations.
According to him, the project which would be completed within 18 months, would serve multiple purposes and promote inclusiveness among Christian faithful across the state.
“The Ecumenical Centre is actually an ultra-modern building to house over 1,000 worshippers.
“It is designed to cater to all churches in the state, regardless of your denomination, whether you’re catholic, you’re anglican, you’re protestant, and all of that.
“So it’s a multi-purpose, very functional building and we hope to complete the building within 18 months from now”, he stated.
Architect Ukwa also expressed gratitude to the governor for entrusting the project to his team and assured that quality delivery would be prioritised.
