An Analysis of Engineering and Construction Practices in the Evolution of Religious Architecture at Living Faith’s 100,000 Capacity Auditorium in Otta, Nigeria

• Author(s): Taiwo Emmanuel Oguntolu ; Enoch Oluwagbemileke Oyeleye ; Oviri Edmond Ogheneyoleme ; Oluwaseyi Emmanuel Fayemi
• Paper ID: 1708200
• Page: 296-306
• Published Date: 08-05-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 11 May-2025

Abstract

Living Faith Church, founded in 1981 by Bishop David Oyedepo, has experienced exponential growth, establishing itself as one of the leading religious institutions in Nigeria. In 1999, the church completed its first megastructure—a 50,000-capacity auditorium—constructed within a remarkable 12-month timeframe using predominantly local expertise. This project set a precedent in religious architecture across Africa. In 2021, the church commenced an even more ambitious project: a 100,000-capacity worship centre known as The Ark. Scheduled for completion and dedication on November 29, 2025, The Ark represents a significant advancement in scale, design, and construction innovation. This study investigates the engineering and construction practices employed in the realization of this mega-auditorium, examining how modern technologies, sustainable building strategies, and project management frameworks are shaping the evolution of religious architecture in Nigeria. Through interviews, field data, and comparative literature analysis, the research aims to identify key innovations, contextual challenges, and future implications for large-scale religious infrastructure.

Keywords

Megachurch architecture, Large-span structure, BIM, Modular construction

Citations

IRE Journals:
Taiwo Emmanuel Oguntolu , Enoch Oluwagbemileke Oyeleye , Oviri Edmond Ogheneyoleme , Oluwaseyi Emmanuel Fayemi "An Analysis of Engineering and Construction Practices in the Evolution of Religious Architecture at Living Faith’s 100,000 Capacity Auditorium in Otta, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 11 2025 Page 296-306

IEEE:
Taiwo Emmanuel Oguntolu , Enoch Oluwagbemileke Oyeleye , Oviri Edmond Ogheneyoleme , Oluwaseyi Emmanuel Fayemi "An Analysis of Engineering and Construction Practices in the Evolution of Religious Architecture at Living Faith’s 100,000 Capacity Auditorium in Otta, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(11)