Ex-President George Weah, Philip Shaibu, Others Commission Primate Ayodele’s Mega Church Auditorium in Lagos

Former Liberian President George Weah, alongside a host of distinguished personalities—including former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, the Oniworo of Iworo Kingdom Oba Oladele Kosoko, the Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe Oba Owolabi Adeniyi, and United Nations representatives—on Thursday, February 13, 2025, officially commissioned the newly constructed ultra-modern church auditorium of Primate Elijah Ayodele.

The event, held at the headquarters of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, drew a global audience of prominent figures to celebrate the spiritual milestone and God’s continued grace upon Primate Ayodele’s ministry. The 10,000-capacity cathedral, constructed within a year in response to divine instruction, is a key highlight of the Primate’s annual thanksgiving celebrations, which began in January and will conclude tomorrow.

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In his remarks, George Weah described Primate Ayodele as his spiritual father, commending his unwavering faith and divine calling. He expressed deep appreciation for being invited to commission the new place of worship, describing the moment as a great honor and spiritual responsibility.

“It is a privilege to commission this magnificent house of God. Primate Ayodele has proven beyond doubt that the hand of God is upon his ministry. Today, I proudly stand with the people of God to mark this milestone. There’s no other place I’d rather be,” said Weah.

He continued, “The Bible reminds us that greatness lies not only in following God’s commandments but also in teaching others. Primate Ayodele exemplifies this. I wholeheartedly dedicate this cathedral in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. May God continue to bless this ministry.”

In a symbolic gesture, Weah presented a personal gift to the Primate in appreciation of his spiritual guidance and profound impact. In return, Primate Ayodele presented the Liberian flag to Weah, declaring prophetically that he would return as Liberia’s president. The Primate also honored Weah with a special gift to thank him for his humility and presence.

Also speaking at the event, former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu praised Primate Ayodele’s inclusive and philanthropic spirit. He expressed surprise and gratitude for being invited despite no longer holding public office, a gesture he said reflects genuine love and respect.

“I admire Primate Ayodele deeply. Being invited here even though I’m no longer in office is rare. It shows he values people beyond political relevance. Just today, he gifted JAMB and WAEC forms to students—this is true service to society. I pray God continues to bless him,” Shaibu said.

The ceremony also featured a groundbreaking for a new residential estate and mosque, performed by George Weah, further underscoring the spiritual leader’s commitment to infrastructure and community development.

True to Primate Ayodele’s well-known philanthropic approach, the event included wide-ranging empowerment initiatives. Scholarships and educational support were extended to students, including the distribution of JAMB and WAEC forms to 25 secondary school students, with additional scholarships awarded for university education.

Further demonstrating his generosity, the Primate gifted two vehicles—one to a church member, Ayo Babalola, and another to a journalist, Ayodele Dedeigbo, publisher of Towncrier News.

Business owners, journalists, widows, and church members also benefited from various empowerment packages, reinforcing the Primate’s commitment to uplifting lives through spiritual leadership and tangible community impact.

The commissioning event stands as a remarkable testament to Primate Ayodele’s far-reaching influence, blending faith, prophecy, service, and generosity to uplift society and inspire hope.