‘Why We Built Ecumenical Centre’

The Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, said the newly dedicated Ecumenical Centre was built to unite Christians in the state.
Speaking at the thanksgiving and unveiling of the centre located at Abonnema Wharf Road in Port Harcourt last Sunday, Wike observed that Rivers State was 100 per cent Christian state and needed a rallying point.
Wike also said it was part of his campaign promise to build a centre where all Christians will worship.
Harping on the church’s unity, the governor remarked, “ I don’t see any reason for division in the church.”
The governor, who expressed happiness that the project met the projected deadline, disclosed that government made sure the contractor was not owed as funds were released to ensure quick completion.
Wike at the church thanksgiving, handed over the centre’s certificate of occupancy to the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Isaac Tam Ayanasikike, urging them to utilize the facility for the purpose it was built.
He explained that the centre has five offices, a vicar’s lodge, car park and public rest rooms.
Earlier in his sermon, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God Worldwide, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, said Wike has laid a milestone.
“ You have done something no other governor has done. So, you should expect God to respond to you as He has not responded before to you,” he said.
Adeboye described the building as “cute”, and prayed that everyone who comes to the centre will receive God’s blessings and salvation.
On his part, state Chairman of CAN,  Ayanasikike commended Wike for building a place of worship for God, and prayed God to reward him and his government immensely.
The CAN chairman assured the building will be utilized properly, especially to propagate God’s gospel, stressing that, “ this temple shall become the unity centre.
Special prayers were offered by clerics from different church denominations which include, Most Rev, Ignatius Kattey, Apostle Zilly Aggrey, Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Most. Rev, Camillus Etukudo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt.