BY SAM OTUONYE and EVEREST EZIHE
Assemblies of God Church,Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Council of Imo State has advanced plans to dedicate the first ever multi billion Naira Noah’s Ark Church building, philanthropically financed and donated by Engr. Barr. Success Obioma Akagburuonye of Hope Rising For Imolites (Olile Anya Ndi Imo).
The event which is already attracting global attention as the first-of-its-kind church building, an epitome of world class architectural masterpiece with holy aura and aesthetical ingenuity has become a tourist attraction and pilgrimage destination.
Among the creme-de-la- creme global personalities to grace the historical dedication ceremonies slated for Saturday 24th May, 2025 are the former President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai, Rev. Dr Sarah Seoh of Los Angeles, USA, Traditional Rulers, Captains of industry, Political Leaders, among other dignitaries.
The ecclesiastical architecture, one of the litany of Akagburuonye’s Kingdom investment gestures located in his Ogbor Uvuru home stead will be declared open by the General Superintendent, Assemblies of God Church, Nigeria, Rev. Abel Ukachi Amadi, Ph.D.
The Ark, a replica of the Biblical Noah’s Ark, in form, shape and service, has the same spiritual mandate of saving everyone that casts no doubt of the power of God that delivers unto the uttermost.
The event is also expected to witness a mammoth crowd of faithfuls, tourists and pilgrims from from all walks of life as the news of the transformative church auditorium has spread across the continent as a centre for spiritual succour.
Akagburuonye, a die-hard Kingdom investor, philanthropist and Real Estate mogul, who said he built the Church by the inspiration and direction of the Holy Spirit captured the implications of the Ark thus:
“The Noah’s Ark Church is a symbol of faith, obedience, and salvation. Noah’s story is a powerful reminder of God’s promise to save those who trust in Him. According to the biblical account, Noah spent 120 years constructing the ark, following God’s detailed instructions. As he built the ark, many mocked him, questioning the purpose and relevance of his endeavor. Yet, Noah persevered, trusting in God’s promises. And when the flood came, it was those who mocked him that were swept away, while Noah, his family, and the animals found safety in the ark.
“Even the snail, often slow and seemingly insignificant, found refuge in the ark, escaping the deluge that destroyed everything else.This story teaches us a valuable lesson of faithfulness and obedience to God. However, this is crucial in life because, even when others doubt or mock us.
” I searched globally for a church designed like Noah’s Ark but couldn’t find one. So, I collaborated with architects to bring this vision to life. We worked together, playing with designs until we arrived at this magnificent structure.
“This church will be a sanctuary for spiritual growth, refuge, and salvation. I believe that anyone who comes to the Ark to call on God Almighty, he or she will be saved, and their desires will be accomplished. This has been decreed by God. It’s a place for physical and spiritual safety. This is in line with the Biblical injunction that, “Anybody that comes to the Ark to call on God will be saved.”
As the Ark is unveiled and dedicated to the glory of God on the 24th of May, 2025, the grace with which it was built will surely be sufficient for everyone that steps into it for miracles and wonders.
