Royal Arch
Royal Arch Freemasonry in Nigeria
Discover the Royal Arch
Royal Arch Freemasonry is often described as the natural progression of a Freemason’s journey, offering deeper insights and a richer understanding of the Craft.
Known as the final step in “pure ancient Masonry,” the Royal Arch provides a profound and symbolic experience that complements and enhances the lessons learned in Craft Freemasonry.
It is open to those who wish to explore the deeper meaning of Freemasonry and discover the rich symbolism and teachings that lie at its heart.
What is the Royal Arch?
The Royal Arch is a distinct and integral part of Freemasonry. It builds upon the foundational principles of the Craft, offering a greater sense of fulfilment and completion. Through its unique ceremonies, the Royal Arch reveals more profound moral and spiritual lessons, centred around themes of discovery, dedication, and enlightenment. Joining the Royal Arch is often seen as completing the journey that began in Craft Freemasonry.
Who Can Join Royal Arch Freemasonry in Nigeria?
Membership in the Royal Arch is open to those who have been a Master Mason for four weeks and upwards and those who wish to further their Masonic knowledge and understanding.
To join, you must:
- Be a Freemason who has completed the third degree in Craft Freemasonry.
- Be a member of a Craft Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England.
- Have a genuine interest in exploring the deeper symbolic teachings of Freemasonry
Whether you are new to Freemasonry or have been a Craft Mason for many years, the Royal Arch welcomes those eager to continue their Masonic journey.
The benefits of joining the Royal Arch
Joining Royal Arch Freemasonry in Nigeria offers a range of unique benefits, including
Deeper Understanding
Gain a greater appreciation of the spiritual and moral lessons of Freemasonry.
Personal Fulfilment
Experience a sense of completion as you explore the symbolic conclusion of the Craft degrees.
Companionship
Build closer bonds with like-minded individuals who share your commitment to Masonic values and learning.
Tradition and Heritage
Be part of a rich tradition that has been an essential element of Freemasonry for centuries.
Meet the Royal Arch Executive of the District Grand Chapter of Nigeria
The Royal Arch Executive Team in the District Grand Chapter of Nigeria plays a crucial role in managing and supporting the activities of Royal Arch Chapters within the District.
This team is responsible for providing leadership, direction, and oversight to ensure that all Chapters operate in accordance with Masonic traditions, constitutions, and regulations.
They work closely with Chapter leaders and Companions, offering guidance and support to maintain unity, promote growth, and encourage participation in Royal Arch Masonry.
In addition to their administrative duties, the Executive Team is actively involved in ceremonial events, including installations, convocations, and official visits, reinforcing the rich heritage and symbolism of Royal Arch Masonry.
They also focus on promoting charitable initiatives and fostering a spirit of benevolence within the wider community, reflecting the values of the Order.
Membership development is a key priority, with the team striving to attract new members while supporting the progression and education of existing Companions.
Training programs and mentoring schemes are offered to enhance understanding and engagement with Royal Arch rituals and teachings.
Led by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E. Comp Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, OON, SAN, FCIArb. supported by his Deputy and Assistants, the District Executive Team works collaboratively to preserve the traditions of the Royal Arch while ensuring its continued relevance and growth throughout the District Grand Chapter of Nigeria.
Royal Arch
Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu
OON, SAN, FCIArb
District Grand Superintendent
Chief Elie Rossek
Deputy District Grand Superintendent
Obiora Onwuteaka
2nd Grand Principal
Adedayo Pearce
3rd Grand Principal
Real Admiral James Boer (Rtd)
Assistant to the Grand Principal
Chibuzor Nnubia
Assistant to the Grand Principal
Dr. Greg Ezeilo
District Grand Treasurer
Oghale Enuku, Esq
District Grand Scribe Ezra
Our Chapter
| Chapter Name | Chapter No | Meeting Place |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos Chapter | 1171 | St. George’s Hall 28 Broad Street, Lagos |
| St. John’s Chapter Lagos | 2668 | St. George’s Hall 28 Broad Street, Lagos |
| St. George’s Chapter | 3065 | St. George’s Hall 28 Broad Street, Lagos |
| Northern Nigeria Chapter | 3325 | Masonic Hall, Hotel De Bently Utako, Abuja |
| St. Mark Chapter | 3611 | Masonic Hall Ibaa Road, Isokpo Road, Port Harcourt |
| Traveller’s Chapter | 3726 | Ebute-Metta Hall, 22 Odaliki Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. |
| Ebute-Metta Chapter | 3973 | Ebute-Metta Hall, 22 Odaliki Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. |
| St. John’s Chapter | 3780 | Freemason’s Hall 35 Egerton Road, Onitsha. |
| Port Harcourt Chapter | 3881 | 26 William Jumbo Street, Port Harcourt |
| Plateau Nigeria Chapter | 5229 | 3 Banks Road, Jos |
| Ibadan Chapter | 5316 | Oluyole Masonic Hall, Jericho Reservation, Ibadan |
| Chapter of Fidelity | 5779 | Freemason’s Hall 35 Egerton Road, Onitsha. |
| Abeokuta Chapter | 7764 | Lisabi Masonic Hall, Ayetoro Road, Lafenwa Abeokuta. |
| Benin Chapter | 7800 | Masonic Hall, GRA Benin City, Benin. |
Royal Arch – Your questions answered
Below are some of the most common questions asked. To find out more please speak with your proposer, lodge mentor or Royal Arch representative.
The Supreme Order of the Royal Arch of Jerusalem, more commonly known as Chapter, is often called the completion of every Mason’s journey in pure and ancient freemasonry.
In Chapter the ceremony of initiation is called Exaltation and is based upon the rebuilding of King Solomon’s Temple after its destruction by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in about 586 BC.
Chapter companions can be identified by a jewel that they are permitted to wear in Craft meetings.
It provides a spiritual dimension at which the Craft ceremonies can only hint, leading on naturally to consider what happens after the event so vividly re-enacted in the ceremony of raising.
No it is open to all faiths.
Yes, you can join Chapter after you have been a Master Mason of one-month standing. You can also go through the Chairs of the Chapter before you have been through the Chair of a Craft Lodge.
Chapter meetings are called Convocations and most Chapters meet three times a year.
Most Masonic center’s in Nigeria hold Chapter meetings. It is possible that your Craft lodge has a Chapter attached to it by the same name or encourages joining a local Chapter.
Some Freemasons prefer to join a Chapter at another Masonic Center to broaden their circle of friends.
The choice is yours!
In a Chapter an LOI is called a Chapter of Improvement and is dependent on the particular Chapter; some have a COI once a month some only have one before a meeting, there is an expectation that by now you can assimilate the ritual that much easier; for example, there is less ‘floor work’ than the craft. If your Chapter does not have a COI there is a list of dedicated Chapter of Improvements in the Year Book, which you can attend as and when required.
Cost may vary according to Chapters. Some Chapters charge the annual fee and charge for the festive board separately on attendance only.
There are a number of orders such as Knights Templar, Red Cross of Constantine and Royal & Select Masters where it is a prerequisite that you are a member of the Royal Arch but you should enquire from your proposer, lodge Mentor or Royal Arch representative to be sure.
The first option is to speak with someone in your lodge who is already a member.
Your lodge Mentor or proposer will also be able to guide you.
Each lodge is encouraged to have a Royal Arch representative. They are the official link between the Craft and Royal Arch who will also be able to help.
You can also contact the District office on 07044063847 | Secretariat@districtgrandlodgeofnigeria.com and they will be able to help you.