Latter-day Saints Celebrate Lagos Temple Groundbreaking as Symbol of Growth, Faith | ClipTV Online

In a momentous and spiritually uplifting event, members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gathered to witness the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lagos Nigeria Temple—a sacred milestone for both the local faithful and the global Latter-day community.

The Lagos Nigeria Temple was originally announced in 2018, during the October general conference. The saints in Lagos rejoiced and patiently await for this important day.

It was a joyous moment for stakes across Lagos, many who have been traveling many to miles to Aba for a temple worship. The event, marked by heartfelt prayers, testimonies, and reflections, took place on the newly designated 2.7-acre temple site. It will soon house a one-story temple of approximately 19,800 square feet, including an arrival center and patron housing to serve members traveling long distances to participate in temple worship.

Elder Alfred Kyungu, General Authority Seventy and President of the West Africa Area, presided over the groundbreaking. In his remarks, he underscored the divine purpose of temples within the Church.

“This groundbreaking today announces that this site will become a House of the Lord,” Elder Kyungu said.
“It is where members will worship, make covenants on behalf of their loved ones, and strengthen their path to eternal life with our Heavenly Father. These are sacred ordinances that cannot be performed elsewhere.”

He further explained the distinction between local meetinghouses—used for weekly worship and gospel learning—and temples, which are set apart for sacred, eternal ordinances and priesthood service.

Elder Kyungu expressed faith and optimism that the temple’s construction would be completed in approximately three years, stating:

“We depend on architects, contractors, and the hand of God, but we look forward with faith.”

Representing the Lagos State Government, Rev. Bukola Adeleke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religion, congratulated the Church and offered prayers for the temple’s successful completion.

“It is a thing of joy to witness the groundbreaking of this temple,” he said.
“We pray that the same hands that started the project will be upheld by the Lord until its completion. This church is built on solid rock, and God has been using its leaders to spread the gospel and win souls for Christ.”

President Sunday Oyedeji of the Lagos Nigeria Egbeda Stake also addressed the gathering, describing the day as a landmark in Nigeria’s religious history. Drawing on the memory of the Aba Nigeria Temple groundbreaking 23 years ago, he praised the continued growth of the Church and its influence.

“As we make covenants in the House of the Lord, we draw closer to God and strengthen our families and communities. Heaven rejoices at this occasion,” he said.

Quoting President Russell M. Nelson, President Oyedeji reminded members that sacred covenants bind believers to God and endow them with divine strength to endure life’s trials.

As the Lagos Nigeria Temple begins its journey from foundation to completion, it stands as a testament to faith, growth, and a deep commitment to building spiritual strength among the Saints in Nigeria and across West Africa.