Three months after the foundation stone was laid, the leadership of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI), Nigeria, returned on Saturday, June 28, to inspect the KSJI Retreat and Conference Center project site – and what they saw inspired hope, pride, and renewed commitment.
Led by the Supreme Subordinate President, Major General Remy Uche, the delegation was visibly impressed by the progress made since the symbolic groundbreaking took place about three months ago. The transformation of the once-overgrown terrain into a rising spiritual edifice drew praise from members of the Supreme Subordinate Commandry, who took a time off their deliberations in a meeting in Enugu, to witness firsthand the realization of a long-held vision.
Before the site tour, Major General Uche acknowledged the significance of the moment. “More than 50% of us here had never visited this site before. You’ve been hearing about the Center of Excellence and imagining where it is – well, this is where it is,” he said. Recalling his first visit a year ago, he admitted, “I was discouraged. The bush was overwhelming, the road terrible. But we saw the potential. We decided this place should not just be called a Center of Excellence but a Retreat and Conference Center – a sanctuary where people encounter the peace of nature and the presence of God.”
Describing the center as a spiritual haven, he emphasized that, once completed, it will serve as a place where one can “shut off the entire world, commune with the Creator, and seek divine intervention. If you have a challenge, you come here to place it before God. This will be a place of personal renewal and even national prayers.”
The project architect, Noble Sister Augusta Emenike, who also led the delegation during the foundation laying, once again conducted the tour. Her detailed briefing highlighted the pace of work and how the construction is staying true to the spiritual and architectural vision. The team’s satisfaction was unanimous.
Rev. Fr. Michael Omueghele, Supreme Subordinate Spiritual Director, was visiting for the first time and described the site as “a beautiful place.” He praised the foresight of KSJI-Nigeria in undertaking the project. “It’s high time the Order had a place of its own. We pray that as God blesses this site, He will also raise generous men and women to support it. This project reflects the spirit of delayed gratification – something to bequeath to our cadets, juniors, and future generations,” he added, expressing hope that the center will uplift not only members of the Order but the wider community.
Also moved by the progress was Noble Sister Chinwe Irene Mgbajiaka, Supreme Subordinate Auxiliary President of the Ladies Auxiliary, KSJI Nigeria. She said simply but firmly, “I am impressed,” echoing the general sentiment of all who saw the transformation.
Chairman of the Building Committee and former Minister of Information, Colonel John Nnia Nwodo Esq., welcomed the group warmly, stating, “We’re servants of the Order. Our duty as members of the building committee is to ensure that this project is not only completed but also becomes a source of pride. We’re fortunate that the Supreme Commandry leadership is in Enugu and can supervise firsthand the work we are doing.”
For Brigadier General Chijioke Ugwuoke, Supreme Subordinate 2nd Vice President, the visit was especially emotional. “When we first came here, it was frustrating and disappointing. Nothing seemed to be moving. But today, structures are rising, and there’s joy in the air. It gives us hope and justification for our sacrifices – we can see signs of our labour turning into a legacy,” he said.
Captain Greg Nnaji – an Engineer and Secretary of the Building Committee – also played a coordinating role during the inspection, reinforcing the Order’s commitment to transparency and accountability in delivering a world-class Retreat and Conference Center. His meticulous documentation of the project’s milestones continues to ensure that all stakeholders remain informed and involved.
Other prominent members of the building committee present at the inspection included Colonel Alex Ifeagwazi, an engineer, and Sr. Edith Egbuje- the Project Accountant, Builder Donatus Eze, Engr. Venatus Igbo (Project Manager) and Architect George Emenike of the Building team. Major General Innocent Diyioke sent his apologies. They were joined by other Grand Commanders and several distinguished members of the Order whose presence underscored the collective ownership of the project and the spiritual significance it holds for the KSJI family across Nigeria.
With the momentum currently building, there is widespread optimism that the KSJI Retreat and Conference Center, a sanctuary for prayer, meditation, leadership training, and spiritual revival, will be completed within the projected timeline.
Indeed, the dream of the Knights of St. John is rising – brick by brick, and prayer by prayer. GMTNewsng
