President
Goodluck Jonathan and former Prime Minister of Britain, Tony Blair were
present at the opening ceremony of the Rock Cathedral of House on the
Rock in Lekki Lagos. The church built in eight years, is now valued at
about $85million (N13.4 billion), according to the founding pastor of
the church, Paul Adefarasin.
At
the unveiling ceremony of the 9,000 seater church, Jonathan urged
Nigerians to demonstrate unfailing love for the country notwithstanding
the current challenges confronting the nation.
He said for Nigeria to be a better place, there should be collective efforts of every individual and the communities.
“I
appreciate all for giving me the opportunity. I thank all Nigerians for
what they are doing for the country. Because of the intercessory
prayers, the country is stabilised,” he said.
The
president said transformation could not be effective without passing
through challenges. He then assured Nigerians that whatever challenges
the country is passing through now, will end in joy.
“When
we work hard, we will take our country where we want it to be,’’ he
said and urged Nigerian youths not to relent in working with the
government for the betterment of the country.
“Nigerian
youths, we reassure you that we will continue to work together, do our
best for the country as a nation. When we work together, we will
overcome the challenges in the country.
Former
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, said for total
transformation to take place, Nigerians should work hard and see
themselves as one and do away with religious differences.
Blair said that Nigeria is a country endowed with great potential, hence, the need for total transformation.
“Nigeria
should be hopeful because of its people. Nigeria will be built by the
strength and dedication of Nigerians. There is no progress in the midst
of violence,” Blair said.
He
urged the Federal Government to put opportunities in the hands of many
not few, and appealed to Nigerians and religious bodies to tolerate one
another and give room for religious reconciliation.
Rev.
Paul Adefarasin, the Senior Pastor of the Church, said there was hope
for Nigeria in spite of the challenges ravaging the country.
The ceremony continues on Sunday with the dedication of The Rock Cathedral, where renowned gospel artist Don Moen will minister.
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