Rivers State Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, has described the construction of a place of worship as a rare privilege and honour bestowed by Almighty God.

Prof. Odu spoke on Sunday during the dedication service of the new Assemblies of God Church auditorium in Akabuka, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State.

She likened the project to the biblical accounts of King David and King Solomon, noting that those entrusted with building for God are specially favoured. The Deputy Governor commended Dr. Andrew Igwe for single-handedly funding and constructing the church edifice, describing his effort as an outstanding demonstration of faith and commitment to God’s work.

Prof. Odu also praised Dr. Igwe for his contributions to community development, particularly through scholarships and other forms of assistance that have benefited hundreds of people within and outside the community.

She urged Christians to emulate the spirit of generosity displayed by the donor, stressing that every contribution towards the work of God, regardless of its size, is valuable and attracts divine blessings.

According to her, the newly dedicated auditorium is more than a physical structure, as it represents hope, unity, spiritual renewal and healing for the Akabuka community. She called on members of the congregation to take ownership of the building and ensure its proper maintenance for future generations.

In his sermon titled “God Will Honour Those Who Honour Him,” taken from 1 Samuel 2:30, the National Treasurer of the Assemblies of God Church, Rev. Gabriel Michael, said God honours those who honour Him and despises those who treat Him with contempt.

Rev. Michael lamented that some individuals, including political leaders, choose to dishonour God by deploying resources for ungodly purposes rather than supporting noble causes. He commended Dr. Igwe for honouring God through the acquisition of land and the construction of a modern church dedicated to worship.

Speaking earlier, Dr. Andrew Igwe, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the Dr. Andrew A. Igwe Care Foundation, said the church project was a divine mandate initiated last year and completed within 19 months.

He attributed the successful execution of the project to God’s provision and expressed gratitude for the grace to witness what he described as a remarkable testimony.