Nigeria’s political and spiritual leaders on Sunday gathered at the National Assembly to commission the legislature’s first Christian chapel, using the occasion to urge repentance, unity, patriotism, and God-guided lawmaking.
The ceremony, attended by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, ministers, diplomats, and senior clerics, focused on the moral responsibilities of lawmakers serving over 200 million Nigerians.
“The Eternal Lawmaker is God” — Kukah
Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, reminded lawmakers that their authority is temporary, while God’s authority is eternal.
“I think all lawmakers must have the same humility, because the eternal lawmaker is God himself,” Kukah said. He urged legislators to enact laws reflecting unity and shared humanity, warning against division and hypocrisy.
Akpabio Highlights Chapel’s Spiritual Significance
Godswill Akpabio described the chapel as a covenant between lawmakers and God. “While men legislate for a season, God legislates for eternity,” he said.
He noted that the chapel was completed through contributions from past and present lawmakers, not public funds, and called on Nigerians to focus on competence and patriotism in leadership.
Dogara Emphasises Repentance and Unity
Former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara cited 2 Chronicles 7:14, stressing that repentance is key to national revival. He also warned that the chapel’s significance depends on the presence of unity among lawmakers.
Gowon Calls for Love Across Religious Lines
Former Head of State Yakubu Gowon congratulated the National Assembly and urged lawmakers to prioritize national unity over religious differences.
“God says that we should love one another as we love ourselves. We must use this to ensure the continuity and unity of this country,” he said.
Kalu Reminds Lawmakers of Accountability
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, reminded legislators that the chapel symbolizes accountability to God. Quoting Psalm 127:1, he said, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain,” noting that political strategy alone cannot address Nigeria’s complex challenges.
The commissioning of the chapel marks a historic moment for the National Assembly, reinforcing the message that moral and spiritual guidance can play a role in governance.
