By Adeola Ogunlade
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and trust in God, assuring them that the nation will overcome its current difficulties.
Sanwo-olu made this known at the Rededication of The Cathedral Church of St Jude, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion held recently in Ebutte-Metta, Lagos. The rededication of the cathedral is particularly significant, as it follows the rededication of the old church in 2018, which marked the inauguration of the diocese.
He said that “God is the ultimate solution provider, and no matter what we are facing, with Him, there will always be a solution. Many nations have gone through difficult times, and with God’s help, they have overcome. Nigeria will not be an exception.”
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, emphasized the need for the congregation to turn to God during these challenging times.
“My message to the church, and I say this as someone who is part of the church, is that now more than ever, we must go back to God,”.
Salu-Hundeyin expressed her strong belief that God has a special love for Nigeria, and she encouraged the church to call upon Him for guidance and support.
“If we seek God earnestly, especially at this time, I am confident that there will be a solution. Things will certainly get better for us, and that is my message to the church,” he added.
Addressing the people of Lagos, he urged continuous prayer and reliance on God, acknowledging the achievements of the current administration under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“For Lagosians, we must continually be on our knees in prayer. While we have made progress, there is still room for great things to happen. The desire of this administration is to ensure that every Lagosian, every soul, every person who steps foot in Lagos, enjoys a better life.”
He added “To the church celebrating, I say that this is just the beginning. More celebrations are on the way. The church has seen many testimonies, and this is a place where great things happen through prayer. We must not relent in our efforts to follow Jesus Christ.”
In his words, the Bishop, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, The Rt Revd Akinpelu Johnson said that the importance of restoring the cathedral, not just for its structural beauty, but for the spiritual and historical legacy it represents.
“I was elated to have the opportunity to rededicate this cathedral, a place where my great-grandfather, Reverend J.S. Williams, once served. Returning here eight years ago and now being able to play a role in this rededication fills me with overwhelming gratitude,”, he said.
Johnson said, “It’s almost as if God has a sense of humor, allowing the great-grandson of someone who left this church under difficult circumstances to return and celebrate its renewal.”
The bishop shared how he invited a young church member to read the rededication plaque, emphasizing the importance of passing down the story to future generations. “I told her, ‘You will tell the story of this day when we have long since been gone.’ It’s crucial for them to remember our history and the significance of this moment.”
The rededication of the cathedral is particularly significant, as it follows the rededication of the old church in 2018, which marked the inauguration of the diocese. The bishop noted the importance of restoring the cathedral, not just for its structural beauty, but for the spiritual and historical legacy it represents.
“While I oversee the diocese, the day-to-day management of the church falls to the local leaders. My role is to support and guide them, respecting the structure and traditions that have been in place for generations,” he explained.
The bishop also addressed misconceptions about the financial backing of religious pilgrimages, clarifying that many people fund their own trips rather than relying solely on state sponsorship. “It’s important to recognize that not everyone is state-sponsored; many choose to participate on their own. This shows their commitment and the deep personal significance these pilgrimages hold.”
The ceremony served as a reminder of the intertwined histories of faith, family, and community, leaving the congregation with a renewed sense of purpose and a story to carry forward.