FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY FOR BIBLE GUEST HOUSE MARKS HISTORIC MILESTONE IN JALINGO
Jalingo, Taraba State – On Friday, September 26, 2025, the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), Taraba Area, celebrated a landmark event with the foundation laying ceremony of the Bible Guest House, a visionary project poised to enhance spiritual and communal engagement in the region. The ceremony, held at the Bible House along FGGC Road, Jalingo, was a vibrant display of faith, unity, and collective commitment, attended by esteemed clergy, community leaders, past BSN leadership, and faithful supporters.
CAN chairman laying the foundation assisted by Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa the Chairperson
The event was spearheaded by the dynamic leadership of Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, Chairperson of BSN Taraba Area, whose vision and dedication were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Dr. Musa, alongside Rev. Fr. Williams Awoshiri, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter, performed the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone, a symbolic act that marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the Taraba Christian community. Their joint effort was met with resounding applause, underscoring the significance of their leadership in this historic moment.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian matters offering prayers for ground laying ceremony
Rev. Fr. Patrick Muke, Special Adviser to His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Governor of Taraba State, on Christian Religious Matters, also graced the occasion, representing the state government’s support for faith-based initiatives. In his address, Rev. Fr. Muke commended Dr. Musa and her team for their bold vision, emphasizing the guest house’s potential to foster spiritual growth and community development. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to partnering with religious organizations to promote peace and unity.
The Architectural design of the building when completed
The ceremony opened with a heartfelt prayer, followed by worship and reflections on the project’s significance. Rev. Fr. Awoshiri, in his remarks, praised Dr. Musa’s leadership, describing the guest house as a “beacon of hope” that will serve pilgrims, travelers, and the wider Christian community. He called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the project’s success, invoking the spirit of unity and service.
Group photograph of BSN Excutives and Invited Guests
The presence of past BSN Taraba State leadership added a special dimension to the event. These former leaders, who have long supported the organization’s mission, lauded Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa and her executive team for their courage and foresight in undertaking such a bold initiative. Their applause and words of encouragement highlighted the continuity of purpose within the BSN and the shared commitment to advancing God’s work in Taraba State.
CAN Chairman and SA Christian Religious Matters
The architectural design of the Bible Guest House, crafted by Arc. Dr. Samuel Ishaya, was a focal point of the ceremony. His innovative and inspiring design was celebrated as both functional and aesthetically pleasing, promising a modern facility that will serve as a hub for Christian fellowship, retreats, and community engagement. A BSN representative expressed deep gratitude to Arc. Dr. Ishaya, noting that his expertise has laid a strong foundation for a structure that will stand as a testament to excellence.
At the site for laying ceremony
At the heart of the ceremony was the invocation of Psalms 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” This scripture resonated deeply with attendees, serving as a reminder that the project’s success depends on divine guidance. Dr. Musa, in her remarks, reaffirmed the BSN’s commitment to working diligently as “laborers in the vineyard,” trusting God to bring the project to completion. “We are humbled to be part of this divine assignment,” she said. “With God’s grace and the support of our community, this guest house will be a blessing to all who enter its doors.”
The Bible Guest House is envisioned as a multifaceted facility, providing accommodation for visitors, hosting conferences, and serving as a center for spiritual retreats. It aligns with the BSN’s mission to make the Word of God accessible while creating spaces that nurture faith and community. The project is expected to strengthen ties among Christians in Taraba State and beyond, offering a welcoming space for spiritual renewal and fellowship.
The ceremony concluded with prayers of thanksgiving and a call for continued support from the Christian community, donors, and well-wishers. The BSN Taraba Area expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the event’s success, including volunteers, past leaders, and the faithful who attended in large numbers.
As the sun set over Jalingo, the foundation laying of the Bible Guest House stood as a powerful symbol of faith, unity, and divine purpose. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Filister Irarimam Musa, and with the collective efforts of the BSN, its partners, and the Taraba Christian community, the Bible Guest House is poised to become a cornerstone of spiritual hospitality in the region.
