The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, on Saturday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a ₦25 billion Ecumenical Airport Chapel and Pilgrims Centre at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

The event drew prominent national figures, including former Head of State Yakubu Gowon and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja.

The project, initiated by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) as part of its 50th anniversary, is scheduled for completion by October 2026.

Speaking at the ceremony, Akume described the initiative as a landmark project that blends spirituality with national development, noting that it would provide a space for prayer, reflection, and emotional support for travellers and airport workers.

“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.

CAN President, Daniel Okoh, said the project was timely, stressing that airports serve as crossroads of diverse human experiences and require spaces for spiritual renewal.

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

Okoh also acknowledged the support of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, who served as Chief Launcher at the event.

The chapel and pilgrims centre is expected to function as an interdenominational Christian worship facility and a spiritual hub within Nigeria’s busiest airport, catering to travellers, pilgrims, and aviation personnel.

Organisers appealed for financial support from Nigerians and stakeholders to ensure the project’s timely completion, describing it as a symbol of unity, faith, and national cohesion.