When you’re talking about some of the largest church auditoriums in the world, Nigeria is home to some. These mega-churches offer vast spaces for worship, often hosting thousands of believers during services and events.
That said, In this guide, we’ll share with you ten of the biggest church auditoriums in Nigeria. Plus, you’ll learn about impressive capacities, architectural designs, and the stories behind their construction.
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Which Church Has The Largest Auditorium In Nigeria?
Here are the 10 largest church auditoriums in Nigeria, with their capacities:
- The Arena – 9 million capacity
- Hand of God Cathedral – 120,000 capacity
- The Ark – 109,000 capacity
- Glory Dome – 100,000 capacity
- Prayer City – 500,000+ capacity (The article mentions it can hold over 500,000)
- National Temple – 100,000 capacity
- Champions Wonderland – 80,000 capacity
- International Gospel Centre – 35,000 capacity
- Deeper Life Conference Center (DLCC) – 30,000 capacity
- Noah’s Ark Auditorium – 10,000 capacity
1. The Arena – 9 million capacity
The Arena, located in Redemption City, is the massive worship center of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
Spanning three kilometers by three kilometers, it is one of the world’s largest church auditoriums, with a capacity of over 9 million worshippers. This structure hosts RCCG’s major events, including its annual conventions.
Redemption City, formerly known as Redemption Camp, was founded by Josiah Olufemi Akindayomi in 1909 and after his demise, it was handed over to Pastor Enoch Adeboye who is now the General Overseer.
Initially a dense forest, the area was transformed into a thriving religious community. Pastor Adeboye’s faith-driven decision to buy the land for just N6,000, despite having no funds, laid the foundation for today’s city.
Now home to over 200,000 people, Redemption City features schools, hospitals, guesthouses, and other amenities. The Arena itself is designed with advanced technology, including large screens and a sound system that all worshippers can actively participate in. Only church members can own land within the city.
2. Hand of God Cathedral – 120,000 capacity
The Hand of God Cathedral in Rivers State, Nigeria, is the second-largest church auditorium in Nigeria, with a seating capacity of 120,000.
It is the headquarters of Salvation Ministries, led by Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The cathedral’s unique design resembles a hand, which symbolizes divine guidance and protection.
Its structure includes five finger-shaped sections, each holding 20,000 worshippers. The massive 91-meter central dome and 56,130 square meter footprint make it an architectural wonder.
Also, the roof, made from advanced aluminum-magnesium-manganese sheets, is designed for durability. Inside, the cathedral features gold-accented ceilings, organ pipe designs, and grand chandeliers.
Aside from worship, the cathedral includes youth centers, classrooms, administrative offices, and modern amenities like HVAC systems and fire safety measures.
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3. The Ark – 109,000 capacity
The Ark Auditorium, a massive project by Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel), is set to become the third Nigeria’s largest church auditorium.
Located in Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria, it will seat 109,000 worshippers, surpassing the current Faith Tabernacle, which holds 50,000.
Bishop David Oyedepo envisioned The Ark to accommodate the church’s fast-growing congregation, which has over 6 million members worldwide.
The project was announced in 2019, with construction starting in March 2021. And, the estimated cost is about N160 billion ($400 million). The Ark will feature modern architecture, including a 24-floor Mission Tower for administrative offices.
It will also have prayer booths, communal spaces, and a basement parking area for 330 cars, which can be converted into extra seating. As of late 2024, major structural work is underway, with funding coming from church resources and donations.
However, the dedication ceremony is set for November 29, 2025, and will attract worshippers from Nigeria and beyond.
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4. Glory Dome – 100,000 capacity
The Glory Dome is the fourth largest church auditorium in Nigeria, located in Abuja. It serves as the headquarters of the Dunamis International Gospel Center (DIGC) and has an incredible seating capacity of 100,000.
Dedicated on November 24, 2018, it is an architectural wonder, featuring a column-free design that provides every attendee a clear view of the stage.
The auditorium’s massive roof spans 228 meters and covers over five acres. Standing 43 meters tall, the structure is as high as a 13-story building.
It has five major entrances and two long galleries, making it easy for large crowds to enter and exit smoothly. The cantilevered roof, built without visible pillars, is a remarkable engineering achievement.
Construction began on September 14, 2014, and took four years to complete. Led by Dr. Paul Enenche, the project was built using local expertise without external financial aid.
It also houses educational institutions and restaurants, which have contributed to the local community’s development and spiritual growth.
5. Prayer City – 100,000 capacity
Prayer City Auditorium, located in Lagos, is the fifth-largest church auditorium in Nigeria, with a capacity to hold over 500,000 worshippers.
Operated by the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), this vast spiritual and conference center is a hub for different religious activities such as prayer meetings, conventions, and deliverance services.
The auditorium is designed like an indoor stadium, with a layout that can accommodate large congregations and modern amenities to enhance the worship experience.
In addition to the main auditorium, Prayer City includes event centers, meeting rooms, a clinic, helipads, a petrol station, a hotel, and ample parking spaces.
These features provide a comprehensive environment for both worship and community activities. Prayer City has become a landmark in Nigeria’s religious space, particularly known for its deliverance and spiritual warfare.
It attracts worshippers from Nigeria and beyond, making it a notable center for spiritual growth and evangelism, led by Dr. Daniel Olukoya, the founder of MFM.
6. National Temple – 100,000 capacity
The National Temple, located in Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos State, is one of the largest church auditoriums in Nigeria and the world. This building belongs to The Apostolic Church Nigeria and can hold over 100,000 worshippers in a single service.
The story of the National Temple began in 1969 when the annual Lagos, Western, and Northern Areas (LAWNA) Convention moved from Ebute Metta to Orishigun due to the growing number of converts.
By 1970, the convention was held at its current location, and by 1976, the Old Convention Hall was built. The foundation for the National Temple was laid in 1979 by S. G. Adegboyega.
After many years of construction, the temple was completed on November 19, 2011, under Pastor Gabriel Olutola’s leadership.
Architecturally, the National Temple combines modern design with cultural elements, hosting different religious activities, such as prayer meetings, conventions, and deliverance services, and continues to serve as a central gathering place for thousands of worshippers.
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7. Champions Wonderland – 80,000 capacity
Champions Wonderland is one of the largest church auditoriums in Nigeria, with a seating capacity of 80,000. Located in Kubwa, Abuja, it serves as the international headquarters of the Champions Royal Assembly.
This megachurch was founded by Prophet Joshua Iginla in 2006 and has grown from humble beginnings, starting in the founder’s living room.
The construction of Champions Wonderland began in late 2014, with a budget of over ₦10 billion (around $25 million).
However, the building is designed with modern architecture to accommodate large congregations comfortably. Its key features include spacious seating for 80,000 people and accessibility for those with disabilities.
In addition to the main auditorium, Champions Wonderland offers children’s facilities, administrative offices, and recreational spaces.
8. International Gospel Centre – 35,000 capacity
The International Gospel Centre, located in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, is one of the country’s largest church auditoriums, with a seating capacity of 35,000.
It is the main venue for the Word of Life Bible Church, founded by Ayo Oritsejafor, a key figure in Nigerian Christianity and former president of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Completed in 2014, the auditorium showcases modern architecture and is designed to host different religious activities, such as worship services, conferences, and community events.
With its massive capacity, the International Gospel Centre attracts not only local worshippers but also visitors from across Nigeria.
9. Deeper Life Conference Center (DLCC) – 30,000 capacity
The Deeper Life Bible Church Auditorium, located in Gbagada, Lagos State, is one of Nigeria’s largest church auditoriums, with a seating capacity of 30,000.
This building is part of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, founded in 1973 by Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, serving as a spiritual center, hosting numerous activities and outreach programs that promote Christian values.
The church is known for its holiness and deep biblical teachings, which have attracted thousands of worshippers seeking spiritual growth.
However, the auditorium’s design features modern architecture that supports large gatherings, including an underground parking garage for 200 vehicles.
Its layout hosts many events, from worship services to conferences and special occasions.
10. Noah’s Ark Auditorium – 10,000 capacity
Noah’s Ark Auditorium, located in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, is one of the largest church facilities in Nigeria, with a seating capacity of 10,000.
It is part of the Full Life Christian Centre, founded by Reverend Ntia I. Ntia in June 2000. Over the years, the church has grown rapidly and become a prominent congregation in the South-South region of Nigeria.
The Full Life Christian Centre started small but quickly expanded due to its engaging worship services and active community outreach.
In 2008, the church moved to a new location on Nsikak Eduok Avenue, where the Noah’s Ark Auditorium was built to accommodate the growing number of worshippers.
What started as two services on Sundays soon grew to three within a year due to high demand. The auditorium is designed with modern architecture, providing a spacious and welcoming environment for worship.
The church is also involved in community service, offering programs like education support, health services, and poverty alleviation to benefit local communities.