By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The ancient community of Umuji Ebenebe in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State was agog and turned into an atmosphere of joy, thanksgiving and deep spiritual reflection on Tuesday as St. Peter’s Parish Ebenebe, popularly known as the Basilica of Grace, was officially inaugurated and dedicated.
The magnificent edifice, built and donated by a renowned real estate developer and philanthropist, Mr. Chibueze Ifediora and his family, stands out and tall as a towering symbol of faith, and one of his regular show of generosity and commitment to the growth of the Church.
The dedication ceremony, which was officially officiated by His Grace, The Most Revd. Dr. Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Awka and Archbishop of the Province of the Niger, was performed amid prayers, hymns and thanksgiving by worshippers drawn from different parts of the state and beyond.
This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that before the intervention of the benefactor, members of the parish had for years worshipped in a small hall that also could no longer accommodate the growing congregation, a challenge that Mr. Ifediora said touched his heart and stirred his decision to intervene.
Speaking at the event, the benefactor, Mr. Ifediora, who is also the MD/CEO of Bethel Court Estate Awka, described the donation of the church building as a personal expression of gratitude to God for His faithfulness, mercy and uncountable blessings upon his family and business.
He said the project was never about personal recognition, but about giving God a befitting place of worship and ensuring that the people of Umuji Ebenebe and surrounding communities have a dignified and conducive environment to commune with their Maker, the Almighty.
According to him, the journey to building the Basilica of Grace was inspired by a deep conviction that true wealth finds meaning when it is deployed in service to God and humanity. He also noted that seeing congregants struggle to worship in an inadequate space challenged him to act, adding that he believes God deliberately positions people to solve problems around them, as he has done.
Mr. Ifediora further encouraged Christians to see church building not merely as physical structures, but as spiritual investments that strengthen faith, unity and moral values within society. While appreciating his family for their solidarity and encouragement, he also lauded friends and well-wishers who came to witness the historic dedication of the first-of-its-kind magnificent church building in the area. He further expressed optimism that the Basilica would serve as a centre of worship, love, discipline and spiritual renewal for generations to come.
Earlier in his homily, Archbishop Alexander Ibezim described the dedication as another evidence of what faith-driven generosity can accomplish, stressing that God still works through willing vessels who understand the responsibility that comes with divine blessings.
The Archbishop reminded the congregation that a church building, no matter how beautiful, only truly becomes the house of God when the people worshipping in it live lives that reflect Christ’s teachings. He urged members of the parish to ensure that the Basilica of Grace becomes a centre of holiness, compassion, truth and service to humanity.
He also admonished Christians not to reduce faith to rituals alone, but to reflect God’s grace in their daily conduct, noting that generosity to God’s work attracts divine remembrance. Commending the benefactor and his family, the Archbishop prayed that God would continually replenish their resources, grant them peace and establish the works of their hands.
Among those present at the event were Hon. Peter Uyanwune, Secretary of Awka South Local Government Area, who represented the Council Chairman, Hon. Prince Chinedu Okafor; Princess Tochi Obi, Managing Director of the Anambra State Hydraform and Concrete Agency; and Owelle Emma Ugonabu Okenna (Owelle Ebenebe), who represented the traditional ruler, H.R.H. Igwe Chris Emeka Nnaegbuna.
Also in attendance included Comrade Charles Obinna Ijeomah, Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South East Zone F, among other notable personalities and several dignitaries who came from within and outside Awka North Local Government Area.
More photos from the event:
