How to Conduct a Burial at RCCG Redemption City (Redemption Camp): Complete Guide to Documentation, Burial Arrangements, Fees, Rules and Regulations for Members and Non-Members (2026–2027)

Last updated: November 2026 · Reading time: about 45 minutes · Reviewed against publicly available RCCG, National Population Commission and funeral-planning sources*

To bury a loved one at the RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden (Redemption Camp), KM 46 Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State, contact the Memorial Garden administration first (RCCG members should start with the deceased's Parish Pastor), confirm eligibility, obtain the current application requirements and written fee quotation, complete the medical and death-registration documents, secure written approval of a burial date, and confirm the coffin, minister, interment and no dust-to-dust rules before announcing anything. RCCG has not publicly published a complete, current fee schedule or application form, so every family must verify these directly.

## Key Takeaways

- The RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden is a real, identifiable burial location where funeral interments take place.

- Membership is not an automatic right, and non-membership is not an automatic bar. Eligibility is decided by the Memorial Garden administration.

- A burial space, an RCCG minister and a funeral venue are three separate arrangements. Secure each one separately.

- Never publish a burial date, venue or programme as confirmed until you hold written approval.

- Death registration with the National Population Commission is free and is separate from the hospital's medical certificate.

- Pay only through officially communicated channels and insist on receipts.

- Ask about the reported no dust-to-dust principle (the traditional throwing of sand or soil into the grave) weeks before burial day, not on the day.

- Keep written records of every approval, receipt and instruction.

## At a Glance: What Is Confirmed and What You Must Verify

| Topic | Status | What to do |

| Memorial Garden exists and is used for interments | Publicly reported and confirmed | Use it as a starting point |

| Location: Redemption City, KM 46 Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State | Confirmed by RCCG published information | Plan travel and arrival early |

| Redemption Camp contact line: +234 1 774 7742 | Published in RCCG's contact directory | Use it to request the Memorial Garden's direct contact |

| Death registration is free via the National Population Commission portal | Stated on the official portal | Register the death |

| Eligibility for non-members | Not publicly published | Ask the administration in writing |

| Burial fees for 2026–2027 | Not publicly published | Request an official written quotation |

| Official application form and checklist | Not publicly published | Request the current form directly |

| Approved burial days and hours | Not publicly published | Obtain written confirmation |

| Rules on coffins, photography, music, vehicles | Not publicly published | Ask for the current rules |

| No dust-to-dust principle | Reported; wording and scope not publicly documented | Ask the administration specifically |

## What This Guide Covers

This Guide

• Understanding burial at RCCG Redemption City
• Who can bury a loved one at the Memorial Garden (members and non-members)
• The first step: making an official enquiry
• Documentation required
• The RCCG membership documentation process
• How to apply for a burial space
• Burial fees and other charges
• Choosing and confirming a burial date
• Conducting the funeral service before the burial
• The order of service for an RCCG burial
• The NO dust-to-dust principle
• Rules and regulations to clarify

13. Transporting the body to Redemption City

14. What happens on burial day

15. Non-RCCG ministers

16. Traditional ceremonies before coming to Redemption City

17. Non-members who want an RCCG burial

18. Interment without a funeral service

19. Postponing a burial

20. After the burial

21. Nigerian legal requirements

22. Common mistakes

23. Timeline from death to burial

24. Avoiding scams and fraud

25. Burying someone who died abroad (diaspora families)

26. Alternatives if the Memorial Garden is not available

27. Visiting Redemption City: location, travel and conduct

28. Glossary

29. Practical checklist

30. Frequently asked questions

31. Final advice and official resources

Introduction

This is an important subject because families often discover that arranging a burial at the Redemption City of God is not simply a matter of choosing a date and bringing the remains to the Camp. There are administrative, ecclesiastical, documentation, cemetery, logistical and ceremonial considerations that need to be understood before making arrangements.

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences any family can go through. Beyond the grief, there is the responsibility of making funeral arrangements, obtaining the necessary documents, choosing a burial date, coordinating family members, engaging the church, and ensuring that the deceased receives a dignified and befitting farewell.

For Christians, the desire to give a loved one a Christian burial often comes with an additional consideration: finding a place where the burial can be conducted in an atmosphere that reflects their faith and spiritual convictions.

For many Nigerian Christians, particularly members of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the Redemption City of God, formerly popularly known as Redemption Camp, is one of the places that may come to mind when considering where to lay a loved one to rest. (RCCG's General Overseer, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, renamed the Camp "Redemption City" on 9 August 2022; both names are still widely used, and this guide uses them interchangeably.)

The RCCG Redemption City, situated along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, is a significant spiritual destination for the church and its members. Apart from its numerous churches, worship centres, accommodation facilities and administrative structures, the city also has a Memorial Garden where funeral interments take place.

However, one question frequently arises when families begin making arrangements:

**How does one actually arrange a burial at the RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden?**

Can a non-member of RCCG bury a loved one there? Must the deceased have been a registered member of the church? What documents are required? How does one secure a burial date? Is there a particular burial application form? What are the rules concerning the coffin, grave, interment and final rites? Can a family conduct a traditional funeral before coming to the Camp? Are there restrictions on throwing sand into the grave during the burial ceremony? What is the meaning of the no dust-to-dust principle?

These are practical questions that deserve clear answers.

This guide explains the process of arranging a burial at the RCCG Redemption City, including the preliminary enquiries, documentation, church involvement, date selection, funeral planning, the burial-day procedure and the important matters families should clarify before committing themselves to a burial date.

It is written for both RCCG members and people who do not belong to the denomination but wish to use the Redemption City Memorial Garden.

**A note on accuracy:** This guide is based on publicly available information, RCCG's published materials, available funeral documentation, general Nigerian death-registration requirements and practical funeral-planning considerations. RCCG's internal Memorial Garden procedures, current charges, forms and operational rules must be confirmed with the relevant administration. The guide does not represent unpublished internal RCCG policy as established fact. Where something is not publicly confirmed, we say so plainly and tell you exactly what to ask.

*The New Man is an independent digital media ministry. It is not an official RCCG publication and does not speak for the Memorial Garden administration.*

Understanding Burial at RCCG Redemption City

The RCCG Redemption City of God is located around KM 46 of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State, Nigeria. It is the international headquarters and Camp ground of the church and a major gathering point for Christians from different parts of Nigeria and beyond.

Within the city is the RCCG Memorial Garden, which is used for the interment of deceased persons. Public funeral announcements, including one in 2025, have named the Memorial Garden as the interment location, and at least one published report describes interment there as an event restricted to family members only.

It is important to understand that a burial at the Memorial Garden and a burial service conducted by RCCG are related but distinct arrangements.

A family may wish to:

1. Have the deceased buried at the RCCG Memorial Garden.

2. Have an RCCG minister officiate at the burial.

3. Conduct the funeral service at another location and proceed to the Memorial Garden for interment.

4. Arrange a funeral service at an RCCG-approved venue within Redemption City before proceeding to the burial ground.

5. Combine the church's funeral service and interment arrangements, subject to approval and availability.

These arrangements should not be assumed to be automatically available in every case. The family must confirm the options permitted by the relevant administrative authorities.

The most important thing is to understand that securing permission to bury at the Memorial Garden is an administrative matter that should be addressed separately from organising the funeral programme.

A family should therefore not assume that because a deceased person was a member of RCCG, the family automatically has the right to use the Memorial Garden.

Likewise, a family should not assume that because it has obtained the services of an RCCG minister, the burial ground has automatically been reserved.

Both matters should be properly coordinated.

### The Three Separate Approvals Every Family Needs

| Approval | Who grants it | Why it matters |

|---|---|---|

| Burial space and date | Memorial Garden administration | Without it, there is no confirmed interment |

| Officiating minister | Parish Pastor or appropriate church authority | Determines who leads the service and interment prayer |

| Funeral service venue (if at the Camp) | Venue management | A separate booking from the burial ground |

Who Can Bury a Loved One at the RCCG Memorial Garden?

One of the most important questions is whether the Memorial Garden is exclusively available to RCCG members.

There are two categories of families who may wish to make enquiries.

### A. RCCG Members

A member of RCCG who wishes to bury a deceased family member at the Memorial Garden should begin by informing the deceased's Parish Pastor.

This is particularly important where the deceased was an active member of a particular parish, department, ministry, zone or province.

The Parish Pastor is usually the appropriate first point of contact for ecclesiastical coordination.

The pastor can help the family understand the church's funeral procedures, coordinate with the appropriate church authorities and direct the family to the office responsible for Memorial Garden arrangements.

Where the deceased was a pastor, deacon, deaconess, minister, worker or other church official, the family should also inform the appropriate supervisory church authority.

For example, where the deceased was a pastor, the relevant Area, Zonal, Provincial or Regional authority may need to be involved, depending on the deceased's position and the church's administrative arrangements.

The family should not assume that the procedure for an ordained minister is identical to that of an ordinary church member.

##B. Non-Members of RCCG

A person does not necessarily have to be a member of RCCG to make an enquiry about burial arrangements at the Memorial Garden.

However, the important question is whether the Memorial Garden administration currently accepts applications from non-members and, if so, under what conditions.

We could not establish a publicly published official policy that conclusively states the eligibility conditions for non-members.

Consequently, a non-member should obtain direct confirmation before making financial or funeral commitments.

The family should specifically ask:

- Are non-RCCG members eligible to be buried at the Memorial Garden?

- Must the deceased have been a Christian?

- Can a person who belongs to another Christian denomination be buried there?

- Can a person who did not belong to any church be considered?

- Must an RCCG member sponsor or introduce the application?

- Is a recommendation letter from a Parish Pastor required?

- Must the funeral service be conducted by an RCCG minister?

- Can a minister from another denomination officiate?

- Are there different administrative requirements or charges for non-members?

These questions should be answered before the family proceeds with funeral announcements or makes irreversible arrangements.

**Important:** Do not interpret the availability of burial services for members as automatic proof that the same conditions apply to non-members.

The Memorial Garden administration is the appropriate authority to determine eligibility.

### Members vs Non-Members: Side-by-Side

| Question | RCCG member | Non-member |

|---|---|---|

| First contact | Deceased's Parish Pastor, then the Memorial Garden office | Memorial Garden administration directly (via the Redemption Camp line) |

| Church introduction letter | May be requested; ask your pastor | Ask whether a sponsor or recommendation letter is needed |

| Eligibility | Must still be confirmed; not automatic | Not publicly stated; must be confirmed in writing |

| Officiating minister | Usually coordinated through the parish | Ask whether an external minister is allowed |

| Fees | Obtain a written quotation | Ask whether different charges apply |

| Risk if assumptions are made | Delays and wasted expense | Possible refusal after announcements are made |

## 3. The First Step: Making an Official Enquiry

Once a family has decided that it would like to bury its loved one at the RCCG Redemption City, the first practical step is to establish contact with the appropriate Memorial Garden or burial administration.

Do not begin by fixing a burial date with family members, printing programmes or announcing the burial venue as confirmed.

First, establish whether the deceased is eligible and whether the intended burial arrangements can be accommodated.

The family should make an enquiry covering the following:

1. Availability of burial space.

2. Eligibility of the deceased.

3. Application and documentation requirements.

4. Current burial charges.

5. Available burial dates.

6. Approved days and hours for interment.

7. Rules concerning coffins and burial materials.

8. Requirements concerning the funeral service.

9. Restrictions on traditional or cultural burial practices.

10. The no dust-to-dust principle, if applicable.

11. Rules concerning the number of mourners and visitors.

12. Whether external funeral directors and undertakers are permitted.

13. Whether there are separate charges for grave preparation, interment and other services.

It is advisable to make these enquiries directly with the office responsible for the Memorial Garden rather than relying solely on information obtained from people who have previously conducted burials there.

Burial policies, fees and administrative procedures can change.

### Where Is Redemption City?

RCCG's published contact information identifies Redemption Camp at KM 46, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.

The church's official contact directory provides the Redemption Camp contact number: **+234 1 774 7742**.

The RCCG official website also provides information about Redemption City and its facilities: https://www.rccg.org/the-redemption-city/

Families should use these official channels to request the current contact details of the Memorial Garden administration if they do not already have them.

A general Redemption City contact number should not automatically be assumed to be the direct Memorial Garden booking line.

### Sample Enquiry Message (Copy, Adapt and Send)

> Dear Sir/Madam,

>

> We are the family of the late [Full Name], who passed away on [date] in [place]. We wish to enquire about burial at the RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden.

>

> The deceased was [a member of RCCG, [Parish/Zone/Province] / a member of another church / not affiliated to a church]. The next of kin is [Name, relationship, phone, email].

>

> Kindly advise on: (1) eligibility; (2) the application procedure and required documents; (3) the current fee schedule and approved payment channel; (4) available burial dates, days and hours; (5) rules on coffins, grave preparation, officiating ministers, photography, music, vehicles and traditional rites; (6) the position on throwing sand or soil into the grave; and (7) whether an external funeral director may be used.

>

> We would be grateful for your response in writing. Thank you and God bless you.

>

> [Name, phone number, email]

**Tip:** Save every reply. A screenshot or email is far better than a verbal assurance.

Documentation Required for Burial at Redemption City

Documentation is one of the most important parts of the entire Funeral Planning process and no family should believe they have completed the funeral planning if the necessary documents have not been properly obtained.

We have collated an accessible RCCG Memorial Garden application checklist, families should prepare the following documents for preliminary enquiries and be ready to provide any additional documents requested by the administration.

### A. Documents Relating to the Deceased

**1. Medical Certificate of Cause of Death**

Where the deceased died in a hospital, the hospital should ordinarily issue the appropriate medical documentation relating to the death.

This is important for establishing the medical circumstances of the death and for subsequent death-registration processes.

A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death should not be confused with a death-registration certificate issued by the National Population Commission.

**2. Death Registration Certificate**

Death registration in Nigeria falls within the statutory civil-registration framework administered by the National Population Commission (NPC).

The NPC provides a death-notification service, and its published portal states that death registration is free.

The family should confirm the current registration requirements and complete the applicable process.

Official portal: https://www.deathnotification.nationalpopulation.gov.ng/

**3. Identification of the deceased**

Where requested, prepare available identification documents, including:

- National Identification Number (NIN) slip.

- International passport.

- Driver's licence.

- Voter's card.

- Other recognised identification documents.

Not every document on this list will necessarily be required by the Memorial Garden.

**4. Recent passport photographs**

Some administrative processes may require photographs of the deceased. Confirm the number, format and background requirements before submission.

**5. Evidence of date of birth or age*

This is relevant for administrative records and the preparation of funeral documentation. The deceased’s birth certificate, declaration of age or other acceptable evidence may be useful.

### B. Documents Relating to the Applicant or Next of Kin

The person making the burial application should prepare to submit his/her:

• Full name.
• Residential address.
• Telephone number.
• Email address.
• Valid means of identification.
• Relationship with the deceased.
• Passport photograph, where requested.

Where the person applying is not the immediate next of kin, the family should clarify whether written authorisation is required.

### C. Documents Relating to the Family

Depending on the circumstances, the administration may request:

- Marriage certificate, where applicable.

- Evidence of relationship with the deceased.

- Letter of introduction from the deceased's RCCG Parish Pastor.

- Letter of recommendation from the appropriate church authority.

- Evidence of membership or church affiliation, where applicable.

- Written consent or authorisation from the family representative.

These are preparatory documents, not a representation that RCCG has published all of them as mandatory Memorial Garden requirements.

### D. Documents for Special Circumstances

Additional documentation may be necessary where:

- The deceased died outside Nigeria.

- The body is being transported from another state.

- The death occurred in suspicious or unusual circumstances.

- There is an ongoing police investigation.

- A post-mortem examination was conducted.

- The deceased died in a road accident.

- The family has a dispute over who has authority to make the burial arrangements.

For deaths requiring investigation or coroner involvement, the family should resolve the relevant legal and medical requirements before proceeding with interment.

Where there is a dispute concerning custody of the remains or the authority to determine burial arrangements, obtain legal advice rather than attempting to bypass the disagreement.

### Document Master Table

| Document | Issued by | Needed for | Who keeps the original |

|---|---|---|---|

| Medical Certificate of Cause of Death | Hospital or attending doctor | Death registration, burial processes | Next of kin (keep certified copies) |

| Death registration record | National Population Commission | Legal proof of death, probate, insurance, banks | Next of kin |

| Deceased's ID (NIN, passport, licence, voter's card) | Issuing agency | Identification at application | Next of kin |

| Passport photographs | Family | Administrative records | Submit copies as instructed |

| Applicant's ID and contact details | Applicant | Application | Applicant |

| Church introduction letter | Parish Pastor or supervisory authority | Church coordination, possible eligibility support | Submit as instructed; keep a copy |

| Police or coroner clearance (special cases) | Relevant authority | Lawful release of the body | Next of kin |

| Transit or transportation papers | Funeral director and relevant authorities | Moving remains across states or borders | Funeral director and family |

| Payment receipts | Memorial Garden administration | Proof of payment and booking | Next of kin |

**Practical tip:** Photograph every document on your phone, then print at least three photocopies. Store originals in one waterproof folder carried by one trusted family member.

## 5. The RCCG Membership Documentation Process

For RCCG members, church documentation is an important part of the administrative process.

The family should contact the deceased's Parish Pastor and provide relevant information concerning the deceased's membership and service in the church.

The information may include:

- Full name of the deceased.

- Parish attended.

- Zone and Province.

- Membership status.

- Department or ministry.

- Position held in the church.

- Date of death.

- Name and contact details of the next of kin.

Where the deceased was an ordained minister or church worker, the family should provide accurate details of the deceased's service history.

The family should ask whether the church requires an official letter from the Parish Pastor or another supervisory authority.

Where applicable, the Parish Pastor can assist with the appropriate introduction to the relevant church administrative office.

### What if the deceased was a member but did not attend church regularly?

The family should still make the necessary enquiry.

The administration should determine the applicable eligibility requirements rather than the family assuming that irregular attendance automatically disqualifies the deceased.

Similarly, the family should not assume that membership alone guarantees approval.

### What if the deceased was a pastor or ordained minister?

The family should inform the appropriate church authority immediately.

There may be additional considerations relating to the deceased's ministerial status, official recognition, church representation and the arrangement of the funeral service.

The family should obtain instructions from the appropriate supervisory authority rather than relying on the procedures for ordinary members.

## 6. How to Apply for a Burial Space at the Memorial Garden

Once the preliminary enquiries have been completed, the next stage is to obtain and complete the appropriate application.

The family should request the official application form or the current procedure for applying for interment.

Do not use an unofficial form downloaded from another website or a form supplied by an unrelated funeral service provider.

The application process should be clarified with the Memorial Garden administration.

In particular, establish:

1. Whether the application is completed physically or online.

2. Who is authorised to submit the application.

3. Whether the next of kin must personally sign.

4. Whether a church introduction letter is required.

5. Whether the application can be submitted before all funeral arrangements are completed.

6. Whether a burial space can be reserved provisionally.

7. Whether payment must be made before approval.

8. Whether there is a deadline for submitting documents.

9. How the family receives confirmation of approval.

10. Whether an official receipt and allocation or booking reference are issued.

**Do not confuse the portals.** RCCG's Physical Planning and Development Control (PPDC) portal handles development permits, land allocation and related planning matters. It is not evidence of a Memorial Garden burial application system, and families should not be directed there for burial applications.

### What should the family obtain after applying?

The family should request documentary evidence of the outcome of the application.

Depending on the administration's procedure, this may include:

- Application acknowledgement.

- Approval or acceptance confirmation.

- Burial date confirmation.

- Payment receipt.

- Grave or plot allocation information.

- Written interment instructions.

- Contact details of the officer responsible for the burial.

Do not rely entirely on verbal assurances.

A written record is useful where different family members, funeral directors and church representatives are coordinating the burial.

## 7. Payment of Burial Fees and Other Charges

Another important aspect of arranging a burial at Redemption City is understanding the financial obligations.

Families should request an official breakdown of all charges before making payment.

We could not verify a current official 2026–2027 Memorial Garden fee schedule from publicly accessible RCCG sources.

For this reason, it would be misleading to publish a specific burial price as though it were an officially approved RCCG tariff. Beware of any website, agent or social media post that quotes a fixed "Redemption Camp burial price" without naming an official source.

Instead, families should ask for a written quotation covering all applicable charges.

The following are categories of charges worth clarifying:

| Item | What to establish |

|---|---|

| Application fee | Whether an application or administrative fee applies |

| Burial space | Cost and nature of the allocated space |

| Grave preparation | Whether digging and preparation are included |

| Interment | Whether there is a separate interment charge |

| Documentation | Whether certificates or administrative documents attract charges |

| Funeral venue | Whether use of a hall or other facility is permitted and chargeable |

| Date changes | Whether rescheduling attracts a fee |

| Additional services | Whether any optional services are available |

The family should also ask:

• Is the burial fee refundable if the family changes its mind?
• Can a burial date be changed after payment?
• Does the payment cover the grave preparation?
• Are there additional charges for the use of equipment or personnel?
• Is the coffin included in any package?

- Are there charges for grave maintenance?

- Is there a separate charge for a memorial plaque or grave identification?

- What happens if the deceased's remains cannot arrive on the confirmed date?

### Payment precautions

Make payments only through payment channels officially communicated by the authorised administration.

Request an official receipt.

Avoid paying into personal bank accounts merely because someone claims to be assisting with the burial process.

Where a payment is made through an agent or representative, obtain confirmation from the administration that the payment has been recognised.

### Budget Planner: Costs Beyond the Memorial Garden

The Memorial Garden charge is only one part of the total cost of a funeral. Use the table below to build your own budget and fill in actual quotations.

| Cost category | Typical questions | Your quotation (₦) |

|---|---|---|

| Mortuary and preservation | Daily rate? Embalming? Dressing and presentation? | |

| Coffin | Does it meet Memorial Garden specifications? | |

| Hearse and transport | Distance, fuel, escort vehicles, toll and security | |

| Funeral director | Is the fee inclusive of logistics and paperwork? | |

| Memorial Garden fees | Application, space, grave preparation, interment | |

| Funeral service venue | Hall or church booking, sound, ushering | |

| Officiating minister | Any honorarium or transport arrangement | |

| Programme and printing | Funeral programme, posters, banners, tributes | |

| Photography and video | Where permitted | |

| Food and refreshments | Where permitted; caterers and drinks | |

| Accommodation | Lodging for relatives travelling to Redemption City | |

| Travel for family | Buses, fuel, flights for diaspora relatives | |

| Memorial marker or plaque | Only after approval | |

| Contingency | Set aside a reserve for unexpected costs | |

A sound approach is to agree a total ceiling with the family before any commitments, assign one treasurer, and require receipts for every payment.

Choosing and Confirming a Burial Date

Choosing a burial date is not simply a family decision. It must also be compatible with the availability and operational requirements of the Memorial Garden.

The family should first identify its preferred dates and then submit them for confirmation.

### Factors to consider when selecting a date

**1. Availability of the Memorial Garden**

The proposed date must first be available and accepted by the administration. A date should not be advertised as confirmed until the relevant authority has approved it.

**2. Availability of the officiating minister**

Where the family wants an RCCG minister to officiate, the availability of the minister should be considered. For an RCCG member, the Parish Pastor or appropriate church authority should assist with coordination.

For a non-member, the family should clarify whether an RCCG minister must officiate or whether another minister may conduct the service.

**3. Church programmes and special events**

Redemption City hosts major church programmes and gatherings.

These may affect traffic, accommodation, security, movement and the availability of facilities.

The family should ask whether its preferred date coincides with a major RCCG programme.

**4. Availability of family members**

Where family members are travelling from different states or countries, sufficient time should be allowed for travel and accommodation arrangements.

**5. Funeral director availability**

The funeral director must be able to coordinate the movement of the remains and all required equipment within the approved time.

### Is there a particular day of the week for burial?

Do not assume that the Memorial Garden permits interment on every day of the week.

The family should obtain confirmation of the approved burial days and operating hours.

Also ask whether public holidays, Sundays or major church programme days have special restrictions.

### Can the date be changed after confirmation?

This must be confirmed before payment.

The family should understand the administration's procedure for postponement, cancellation or rescheduling.

A sudden change in circumstances, such as delayed transportation of the remains or a family emergency, should be communicated immediately.

### Date-Selection Worksheet

| Step | Action | Done |

| 1 | List three preferred dates in order of preference | [ ] |

| 2 | Check the dates against major RCCG programmes | [ ] |

| 3 | Confirm availability of the minister for each date | [ ] |

| 4 | Confirm availability of key relatives and the funeral director | [ ] |

| 5 | Submit the preferred dates to the Memorial Garden administration | [ ] |

| 6 | Receive written confirmation of one date and the approved time | [ ] |

| 7 | Only then announce the date publicly | [ ] |

## 9. Conducting the Funeral Service Before the Burial

A family may wish to organise a funeral service before proceeding to the Memorial Garden.

This could involve a church service, a farewell service, a thanksgiving service or another approved Christian funeral arrangement.

The important thing is to establish which activities are permitted within Redemption City and which must take place outside the premises.

### Can the funeral service take place at Redemption City?

The availability and use of a particular church auditorium, hall or venue must be confirmed with the relevant management.

A family should not assume that the availability of the Memorial Garden automatically grants access to every other facility within Redemption City.

Where the family wishes to use an RCCG auditorium, it should make a separate enquiry concerning:

- Venue availability.

- Approval procedure.

- Service duration.

- Officiating minister.

- Sound equipment.

- Choir and music arrangements.

- Decorations.

- Photography and videography.

- Number of expected attendees.

- Security and access control.

### Can the funeral service take place in another church?

The family should ask whether it is permitted to conduct the funeral service at another church before bringing the remains to the Memorial Garden.

This is particularly relevant for non-members who may wish to have their own denomination conduct the funeral service.

Obtain approval for the proposed arrangement before announcing it.

## 10. The Order of Service for an RCCG Burial

RCCG has published an Order of Service containing guidance for church ceremonies, including burial services.

An RCCG burial service generally focuses on the Christian hope of resurrection, the deceased's life and faith, scriptural exhortation, prayer and the commendation of the deceased to God.

The precise order may vary according to the applicable church guidelines and the circumstances of the deceased.

A publicly available RCCG Order of Service document includes the following general elements for a burial ceremony:

1. Opening prayer.

2. Praise and worship.

3. Hymns.

4. Scripture readings.

5. Profile of the deceased.

6. Testimonies.

7. Special musical presentation.

8. Short exhortation or sermon.

9. Prayer.

10. Announcements and final words.

11. Recessional hymn.

12. Procession for interment.

13. Interment service.

The RCCG North America published Order of Church Services also provides a Homegoing Burial Service format that includes reception of the body, hymns, scripture readings, the deceased's profile, testimonies, exhortation, prayer and a recessional hymn.

This is useful as a reference for understanding RCCG's Christian approach to funeral services, although it should not be mistaken for the current official Memorial Garden interment procedure in Nigeria.

### What should the family prepare?

The family should prepare the following, subject to the officiating church's instructions:

• Funeral programme.
• Biography or profile of the deceased.

- Selected photographs.

- Scripture readings.

- Hymns.

- Tributes.

- Testimonies.

- Special musical presentations.

- Appreciation message.

- Information concerning the officiating ministers.

The family should submit the proposed programme to the officiating minister early enough for review.

### Suggested Scripture Readings for a Christian Burial Service

Families often ask which passages suit a burial service. These widely used passages may help, subject to the officiating minister's guidance:

- John 11:25–26 ("I am the resurrection and the life").

- 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 (hope for those who have fallen asleep in Christ).

- 1 Corinthians 15:51–58 (the resurrection of the dead and victory over death).

- Psalm 23 (the Lord as shepherd, even through the valley of the shadow of death).

- Revelation 21:1–4 (God will wipe away every tear).

- Ecclesiastes 12:7 (the dust returns to the earth and the spirit to God).

Understanding the No Dust-to-Dust Principle

One issue that families should specifically clarify before arranging a burial at the Redemption City Memorial Garden is the reported no dust-to-dust principle.

This is particularly important because many Nigerian burial ceremonies traditionally involve the throwing of sand or soil into the grave as part of the interment ceremony.

In some Christian funeral traditions, the officiating minister may invite family members and mourners to throw a handful of sand into the grave while pronouncing or reflecting on the words:

> "For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return."

This expression is drawn from Genesis 3:19.

However, where a burial ground operates under a different interment procedure, the family may be required to follow specific instructions concerning how the burial is conducted.

### What does no dust-to-dust mean?

The expression should not be confused with the Christian doctrine of resurrection or the biblical recognition that the human body returns to the earth.

Genesis 3:19 speaks about human mortality:

> "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return."

The no dust-to-dust expression, as discussed in the context of burial arrangements, concerns the physical ceremonial practice of throwing soil or sand into the grave.

However, we could not locate an official publicly accessible RCCG policy document confirming the exact wording, scope or enforcement of a no dust-to-dust rule at the Redemption City Memorial Garden.

It is therefore important not to publish an unverified interpretation as an established church regulation.

### What should families do?

Before the burial date, ask the Memorial Garden administration these specific questions:

1. Is the throwing of sand or soil into the grave prohibited?

2. Is the prohibition applicable to everyone, including the officiating minister?

3. Can the family participate in the interment in another approved way?

4. Is the use of a shovel or other digging equipment restricted?

5. Does the minister have a prescribed interment prayer?

6. Are there specific words or declarations that must be avoided?

7. Is the prohibition applicable to both members and non-members?

If the administration confirms a no dust-to-dust restriction, the family should obtain clear instructions on the alternative interment procedure.

This is not a matter to leave until the burial day.

A family that is accustomed to a particular burial tradition should know in advance whether that tradition is permitted.

### Does the no dust-to-dust principle mean that the body is not buried?

No.

The expression should not be interpreted to mean that the deceased is not physically interred.

It concerns the method or ceremonial practice, if such a restriction is confirmed by the administration.

The family should distinguish between the physical burial of the deceased and the symbolic actions traditionally performed during interment.

### Preparing Mourners and Relatives

Where the practice is restricted, brief the elders and the wider family before burial day so that no one is surprised or offended at the graveside. A short, gracious explanation from the officiating minister or family spokesperson usually settles matters. Do not argue with Memorial Garden officials at the graveside; raise concerns beforehand through the family representative.

## 12. Rules and Regulations to Clarify Before the Burial

Every organised burial ground operates with administrative and operational requirements.

For a burial at Redemption City, the family should obtain the current Memorial Garden rules directly from the administration.

The following matters are particularly important.

### A. Coffin specifications

Ask whether there are approved coffin dimensions, materials, designs or construction requirements.

Do not purchase an elaborate coffin without first confirming whether it meets the burial ground's requirements.

Also clarify whether metallic, wooden or specially designed coffins are permitted.

### B. Embalming and preservation

The family should establish the requirements for transporting and presenting the remains.

Where the deceased is being transported over a long distance, the funeral director should explain the preservation arrangements and any relevant documentation.

### C. Grave preparation

Clarify who is responsible for preparing the grave.

The family should know whether it is permitted to engage external workers or whether the administration handles all grave preparation.

### D. Burial decorations

Ask whether flowers, wreaths, photographs, crosses, grave markers or other decorations are permitted.

Also establish whether there are restrictions on materials that may be placed inside the grave.

### E. Traditional practices

Families should disclose any intended cultural or traditional rites before the burial.

This is particularly important where the deceased's family intends to perform customary ceremonies alongside the Christian funeral.

The family should ask which practices are permitted, restricted or prohibited.

### F. Photography and videography

Confirm whether photography and video recording are allowed within the Memorial Garden.

If permitted, ask whether there are restrictions concerning:

- Drone photography.

- Tripods.

- Live streaming.

- Professional camera equipment.

- Positioning of photographers.

- Recording other families and visitors.

### G. Sound and music

Establish whether external public-address systems, bands, DJs or other musical arrangements are allowed.

Do not assume that the sound arrangements permitted at an ordinary Nigerian funeral are automatically acceptable at the Memorial Garden.

### H. Decorations and canopies

Where the family intends to provide canopies, chairs, flowers or other temporary structures, obtain approval.

### I. Food and refreshments

Ask whether food distribution, refreshments and catering arrangements are permitted within the designated area.

### J. Security and access

The family should establish:

- Whether mourners need identification.

- Whether vehicles require entry permits.

- Where vehicles may be parked.

- Whether commercial buses are allowed.

- Whether there is a limit on the number of vehicles.

- Whether the funeral procession must follow a designated route.

### K. Children and elderly mourners

Where elderly persons, children or persons with disabilities will attend, ask about accessibility, seating and movement arrangements.

### L. Grave maintenance

Ask whether the family is permitted to install a permanent memorial marker or headstone and whether maintenance is handled by the administration.

These matters should be clarified before the family commits to any additional expenditure.

### Rules Quick-Reference Table

| Area | The question to put in writing |

|---|---|

| Coffin | What dimensions, materials and designs are accepted? Can I bring my own? |

| Grave | Who prepares it and what does it cost? |

| Service | Can the service be held at the Camp, and by whom? |

| Sand or soil | Is throwing sand or soil into the grave permitted? |

| Photos and video | Are cameras, drones and live streaming allowed? |

| Music and sound | Are bands, DJs and public-address systems permitted? |

| Vehicles | Are permits, parking and escort arrangements required? |

| Attendance | Is there a limit on the number of mourners? |

| Food | Is catering permitted within the Memorial Garden area? |

| Markers | Can a headstone or plaque be installed, and by whom? |

## 13. Arranging the Transportation of the Body to Redemption City

Transportation is another important part of the burial process.

The family should coordinate with the funeral director and the relevant Memorial Garden administration to ensure that the remains arrive at the approved time.

Where the deceased is being transported from Lagos, Ibadan, another Nigerian state or outside the country, the family should establish the applicable transportation and documentation requirements.

The following should be confirmed:

1. The approved arrival time.

2. The designated entrance or access point.

3. The location where the funeral vehicle should report.

4. Whether the vehicle must be registered in advance.

5. Whether there is a designated waiting area.

6. Whether the coffin must be presented for inspection.

7. Whether there are restrictions on the type of hearse.

8. Whether the funeral director must provide any additional documents.

For a deceased person being transported from outside Nigeria, additional requirements may apply, including medical, identification, transportation and public-health documentation.

The family should not assume that ordinary domestic transportation arrangements are sufficient for international transportation of human remains.

### Mortuary and Preservation Considerations

Where the burial will not take place immediately, the remains will typically be kept in a mortuary. Choose a reputable facility, obtain a written receipt for the admission of the body, keep a record of the tag number, and ask for a written account of the preservation services provided. Confirm the pick-up procedure, who is authorised to collect the remains, and the daily storage charge so that delays do not create unexpected costs.

## 14. What Happens on the Day of Burial?

The burial day should be the culmination of all the administrative and logistical arrangements already completed.

The family should avoid making important decisions for the first time on the burial day.

A practical burial-day arrangement should generally follow the approved schedule communicated by the Memorial Garden administration.

**Step 1: Arrival at Redemption City.** The funeral vehicle and immediate family should arrive within the approved time. The designated family representative should report to the appropriate officials. The family should ensure that the relevant booking or approval documents are available.

**Step 2: Administrative confirmation.** The administration may need to confirm the burial arrangements and identify the deceased. The family should have its documents and any official payment evidence readily available.

**Step 3: Reception of the remains.** The remains are presented in accordance with the approved arrangement. The officiating minister and other designated persons may participate in the reception.

**Step 4: Funeral service.** Where an approved funeral service is being conducted, the minister proceeds according to the agreed programme. This may include hymns, scripture readings, tributes, a brief exhortation, prayers and final words.

**Step 5: Procession to the burial location.** Following the funeral service, the family proceeds to the designated interment location. The family should follow instructions concerning movement, seating, positioning and access.

**Step 6: Interment.** The body is lowered into the grave according to the approved procedure. The officiating minister conducts the interment prayer and any other prescribed rites. Where a no dust-to-dust restriction applies, the family must follow the alternative procedure communicated by the administration.

**Step 7: Completion of the burial.** The grave is closed or completed by the authorised persons. Any memorial identification or other approved arrangements are carried out.

**Step 8: Final prayers and dismissal.** The minister offers the closing prayer and dismisses the gathering. The family should observe the administration's instructions concerning departure, photographs, decorations and the use of the premises after interment.

**Important:** The steps above are a practical outline of how to organise the day. They are not a published RCCG operational sequence. The actual sequence must be confirmed with the Memorial Garden administration.

### Burial-Day Roles

| Role | Responsibility |

|---|---|

| Family representative | Single point of contact with Memorial Garden officials; carries the documents |

| Funeral director | Hearse, coffin, handling of the remains, vehicle movement |

| Officiating minister | Service and interment prayer |

| Treasurer | Settles any approved payments and keeps receipts |

| Master of ceremonies or usher lead | Seating, order of programme, crowd direction |

| Photographer (if permitted) | Records the service within the rules |

| Family elder | Briefs relatives and handles cultural sensitivities |

## 15. Can a Non-RCCG Minister Conduct the Burial?

This is particularly relevant for non-members.

A family may belong to another Christian denomination and still wish to have the deceased buried at the Redemption City Memorial Garden.

The question is whether the family can invite its own pastor, bishop, reverend or other minister to officiate.

This should be expressly discussed with the administration before the burial date is confirmed.

Ask:

- Can a minister from another denomination officiate?

- Must an RCCG minister be present?

- Must an RCCG minister conduct the interment prayer?

- Can the family have its own minister conduct the entire service?

- Can the funeral service be conducted by the family's church while RCCG personnel supervise the interment?

- Are there doctrinal or liturgical restrictions?

The family should not assume that permission to use the burial ground automatically means permission to conduct every aspect of the service according to its preferred denominational tradition.

Obtain approval for the exact arrangement.

## 16. Can a Traditional Burial Ceremony Be Conducted Before Coming to Redemption City?

Nigerian funeral arrangements often involve several stages.

These may include family meetings, wake-keeping, lying-in-state, funeral services, cultural rites, thanksgiving and the final interment.

Some families may wish to conduct certain traditional activities at their family compound before proceeding to Redemption City.

The family should disclose these arrangements when making its initial enquiries.

The relevant questions include:

- Are traditional rites permitted before interment?

- Must the funeral service remain exclusively Christian?

- Are certain cultural practices prohibited?

- Can the family hold a wake-keeping elsewhere?

- Can the deceased be taken to a family compound before the burial?

- Are there restrictions on traditional objects or materials brought into the Memorial Garden?

The distinction between activities conducted outside the Memorial Garden and activities conducted within it should be maintained.

A family may have considerable freedom in arranging its wider funeral programme, but the rules governing the burial ground must be respected.

## 17. What if the Deceased Was Not an RCCG Member but the Family Wants an RCCG Burial?

This situation deserves particular attention.

There are families in which the deceased belonged to another denomination while some of the children or other close relatives attend RCCG.

There are also cases where the deceased was not particularly religious but the family would prefer an RCCG burial arrangement.

The family should not automatically assume that the deceased's denomination or lack of membership determines the outcome.

The appropriate authority must consider the application under the applicable policy.

In making the enquiry, the family should provide accurate information concerning:

- The deceased's religious background.

- The family's religious affiliation.

- The proposed officiating minister.

- The intended funeral programme.

- The desired date.

- The reason for requesting burial at the Memorial Garden.

It is better to disclose these matters from the beginning than to encounter difficulties after the family has announced the burial arrangements.

## 18. Can a Burial Be Conducted at Redemption City Without a Funeral Service?

A family may wish to conduct only the interment.

This could happen where a full funeral service has already taken place elsewhere or where the family prefers a private burial.

Whether this arrangement is permitted should be confirmed with the administration.

Ask whether the Memorial Garden allows:

- Interment without a full funeral service.

- A short prayer service.

- A private family burial.

- A service conducted entirely by an external minister.

- A burial without public attendance.

The family should also confirm whether there are minimum or maximum time requirements for interment.

## 19. What if the Burial Date Must Be Postponed?

Circumstances may arise that make it impossible to proceed with the scheduled burial.

For example:

- A family member may be unable to travel.

- Transportation of the remains may be delayed.

- Additional documentation may be required.

- A legal issue may arise.

- The funeral director may experience logistical difficulties.

- A medical or administrative issue may prevent the burial from proceeding.

The family should immediately notify the Memorial Garden administration.

It should also ask:

1. Whether the original approval remains valid.

2. Whether a new application is required.

3. Whether the burial date can be transferred.

4. Whether additional charges apply.

5. Whether previous payments are refundable.

6. Whether the allocated burial space remains reserved.

The family should obtain written confirmation of any revised arrangement.

Also inform the mortuary, funeral director, officiating minister, caterers and relatives at once, and revise any printed programme or public announcement.

## 20. What Happens After the Burial?

The responsibility of the family does not necessarily end when the deceased has been interred.

There are several matters worth addressing after the burial.

### A. Burial documentation

Ask the administration whether an official interment confirmation, burial record or other document is issued.

Keep the document safely.

It may be useful for family records, administrative purposes and future enquiries.

### B. Grave identification

Establish how the grave is identified and whether a memorial marker is permitted.

Where the family wishes to install a headstone or other memorial feature, it should obtain approval before commissioning the work.

### C. Grave maintenance

Ask who is responsible for maintaining the burial space.

Clarify whether the family may visit and whether there are particular visiting hours.

### D. Future visits

The family should ask whether there are designated visiting hours and whether visitors need to report to an office.

It should also establish whether there are restrictions on flowers, cleaning materials and other memorial items.

### E. Exhumation

Exhumation should never be treated as an ordinary family decision that can be undertaken without approval.

Where a family has a reason to exhume human remains, it should obtain the necessary legal and administrative approvals.

The family should seek legal advice and consult the appropriate government and burial-ground authorities.

### F. Estate and administrative matters

Once the burial is complete, many families must turn to the deceased's affairs: locating any will, notifying employers, pension administrators, insurers and banks, and, where necessary, obtaining the legal authority to administer the estate. Keep several certified copies of the death registration record and medical certificate for these purposes, and consult a lawyer where there is a dispute or significant property.

### G. Thanksgiving and memorial services

Many families hold a thanksgiving service shortly after the burial. This is independent of the Memorial Garden arrangement and can be held at the family's church or another suitable venue.

## 21. Nigerian Legal Requirements Relating to Death Registration and Burial

Although the Memorial Garden has its own administrative requirements, families must also pay attention to applicable Nigerian laws.

### A. Registration of death

The National Population Commission administers civil registration in Nigeria under the Births, Deaths, Etc. (Compulsory Registration) Act.

Death registration is an important part of documenting the death of a person.

The NPC provides a death-notification portal through which the relevant process can be initiated.

Official website: https://www.deathnotification.nationalpopulation.gov.ng/

Families should confirm the applicable requirements, particularly where the deceased died outside a hospital.

### B. Medical certification

Where the death occurred in a hospital, the relevant medical documentation should be obtained.

Where the death is sudden, suspicious, violent or otherwise requires investigation, the appropriate medical and legal authorities may need to be involved.

A family should not arrange immediate burial in a way that interferes with a lawful investigation.

### C. Coroner-related issues

Where a death falls within circumstances requiring a coroner's investigation, the family should comply with the applicable legal process.

This is particularly important in cases involving suspected foul play, unexplained deaths and certain accident-related deaths.

### D. Transportation of human remains

Where the body is being transported across state or national boundaries, additional documentation or public-health requirements may apply.

The family should consult the funeral director and the relevant authorities.

### E. Authority to make burial arrangements

Disagreements sometimes arise among family members concerning who should determine the burial arrangements.

Such disputes may involve the spouse, children, parents, siblings or extended family.

The family should avoid assuming that every relative has an identical legal entitlement to make every decision.

Where there is a genuine dispute, obtain appropriate legal advice.

The fact that a family has secured a burial date does not necessarily resolve a separate legal dispute concerning the body or the authority to conduct the burial.

*This section is general information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures vary by state and circumstance.*

## 22. Common Mistakes Families Should Avoid

Families can reduce unnecessary stress by avoiding the following mistakes.

1. **Announcing an unconfirmed burial date.** Always secure approval before publishing a funeral programme that identifies the Memorial Garden as the burial venue.

2. **Assuming membership guarantees approval.** Membership may assist with church coordination, but the family should still complete the required administrative process.

3. **Assuming non-members are automatically eligible.** Obtain confirmation of the applicable eligibility requirements.

4. **Paying through unofficial channels.** Use only authorised payment arrangements and insist on receipts.

5. **Purchasing a coffin before confirming specifications.** Ask about the approved requirements before committing to an expensive coffin.

6. **Ignoring the interment rules.** The family should understand the restrictions on traditional practices, grave access and the actual burial procedure.

7. **Leaving the no dust-to-dust issue until burial day.** If the rule applies, the family should understand its implications in advance.

8. **Assuming the funeral service venue is automatically available.** The Memorial Garden and other Redemption City facilities may have separate administrative arrangements.

9. **Failing to coordinate with the officiating minister.** The minister should understand the burial schedule and the approved interment procedure.

10. **Arriving late.** The family should plan transportation and arrival time carefully, particularly where several people are travelling from Lagos or other states.

11. **Failing to obtain written confirmation.** Keep copies of approvals, receipts, correspondence and booking information.

12. **Leaving all arrangements to the funeral director.** A funeral director can provide valuable assistance, but the family should maintain direct communication with the Memorial Garden administration.

## 23. Timeline: From the Day of Death to the Day of Burial

Every case differs, but this sequence helps families see the order in which things usually need to happen. Treat it as a planning aid, not an official RCCG schedule.

| Stage | What to do |

|---|---|

| First 24 hours | Obtain the hospital's medical documentation; secure the body in a reputable mortuary and keep the admission receipt; inform the immediate family and the Parish Pastor; appoint one family representative |

| Days 1 to 3 | Hold a family meeting; agree a budget ceiling and a treasurer; make the written enquiry to the Memorial Garden; start the death-registration process with the NPC |

| Days 3 to 7 | Receive eligibility and requirements in writing; gather identification and church letters; request a quotation; shortlist two or three dates |

| Week 2 | Submit the application; pay only through official channels; obtain a written date confirmation; brief the officiating minister |

| Weeks 2 to 3 | Confirm coffin specifications and purchase; book the funeral director, transport and any funeral venue; finalise the programme; clarify the sand-or-soil rule |

| Final week | Announce the confirmed date; arrange accommodation and vehicles; reconfirm arrival time, entrance and documents with the administration |

| Day before | Reconfirm the minister, funeral director, hearse and mortuary release; assemble the document folder and receipts |

| Burial day | Arrive early; report to the family representative's contact; follow the approved sequence |

| After burial | Collect interment documentation; confirm grave identification and visiting arrangements; begin estate and administrative matters |

## 24. Avoiding Scams and Fraud in Burial Arrangements

Grieving families are sometimes targeted by dishonest middlemen. Protect yourselves.

- Do not pay anyone who claims to be able to "fast-track" or "guarantee" a burial slot without a verifiable official receipt.

- Do not transfer money to personal accounts for fees you have not seen in a written quotation from the administration.

- Treat unofficial social media pages and websites that publish fixed prices or "insider" application forms with caution.

- Insist on receipts that name the payer, the amount, the purpose and the date.

- Verify any claimed official's identity through the church's published channels before handing over documents or money.

- Keep copies of every document you submit.

- Never hand over originals of the deceased's identification without a signed acknowledgement.

- Report suspected fraud to the church administration and to the police.

## 25. Burying Someone Who Died Abroad: Guidance for Diaspora Families

Many families in the diaspora want their loved ones buried in Nigeria. Special steps usually apply, and every country has its own rules.

1. **Obtain the foreign death documentation.** Request the official death certificate and any required medical or coroner's release from the authorities where the death occurred.

2. **Contact the Nigerian mission.** The Nigerian embassy or consulate can advise on documentation for repatriating remains.

3. **Engage an experienced international funeral director.** Ask about embalming certification, a sealed and approved shipping container, airline cargo rules and routing.

4. **Notify the Memorial Garden early.** Share the proposed arrival date and obtain written confirmation of the burial date before flights are booked, since a delayed arrival can disrupt the schedule.

5. **Arrange clearance and onward transport in Nigeria.** Confirm the airport reception, port-health and customs procedures with the funeral director, then coordinate road transport to Redemption City.

6. **Keep the family informed.** Appoint a representative in Nigeria with authority to deal with the administration, and give them copies of all documents.

7. **Plan the arrival window.** Allow extra time between the arrival of the remains and the burial date.

These are general planning points. Requirements change, so confirm each with the relevant authorities and the funeral director.

## 26. Alternatives if the Memorial Garden Is Not Available

Sometimes the Memorial Garden is unavailable on the chosen date, or the family is told that the deceased does not qualify. Families have other options:

- **A different date.** Ask whether an alternative date can be offered, and whether a provisional reservation is possible.

- **A funeral service in another church followed by burial elsewhere.** The family's own church may be able to conduct the service, with interment at a cemetery of the family's choice.

- **Family compound or ancestral burial.** Some families prefer burial at home. Check the local requirements and obtain any necessary permissions.

- **Public or private cemeteries.** Many states and private operators run cemeteries. Ask about eligibility, fees, documentation and the approved procedure.

If you are refused, ask politely whether the reason can be stated in writing and whether reapplication is possible should circumstances change.

## 27. Visiting Redemption City: Location, Travel and Conduct

The RCCG Redemption City of God is located around KM 46 on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, in the Mowe area of Ogun State. RCCG's national headquarters is at Ebute Metta, Lagos, while Redemption City is the church's international headquarters and the site of its large annual and monthly gatherings.

**Planning your travel**

- The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway can experience heavy traffic, especially on weekends, public holidays and during major church programmes. Leave early.

- Share the route, the approved entrance and the arrival time with the funeral director and every vehicle driver.

- Confirm whether vehicles need registration or permits at the gate.

- Where relatives are travelling from far away, consider booking accommodation in advance.

**Conduct on the premises**

If you’re attending 

• Dress modestly and appropriately for a solemn occasion.
• Follow the instructions of officials and ushers at all times.
• Keep noise and photography within the permitted limits.
• Remember that other families may be present and that the Camp is a private religious city with its own rules and security arrangements.

## 28. Glossary of round within Redemption City where interments take place |

| Interment | The placing of the body in the grave |

| Next of kin | The closest relative, usually the person with the primary responsibility for burial arrangements |

| Parish Pastor | The pastor in charge of the local RCCG parish the deceased attended |

| No dust-to-dust principle | A reported restriction on the traditional throwing of sand or soil into the grave; its exact scope must be confirmed |

| Medical Certificate of Cause of Death | The medical document stating the cause of death |

| Death registration | The official recording of a death with the National Population Commission |

| Coroner | An official who investigates deaths that are sudden, unnatural or unexplained |

| Exhumation | The lawful removal of a body from a grave |

| Homegoing service | A Christian funeral service celebrating the deceased's entry into eternal life |

| Wake-keeping | A vigil held before burial, usually the night before |

| Lying-in-state | The formal public viewing of the body before burial |

| Funeral director (undertaker) | The professional who handles the preparation, transport and presentation of the remains |

## 29. Practical Checklist for Families Planning a Burial at Redemption City

The following checklist can help families organise the process.

### Before applying

• Decide whether the family wishes to use the Redemption City Memorial Garden.
• Identify the next of kin or authorised family representative.
• Contact the Memorial Garden administration.

- [ ] Establish whether the deceased is eligible.

- [ ] Confirm whether non-members are accepted.

- [ ] Obtain the current application requirements.

- [ ] Obtain the current burial fee schedule.

- [ ] Ask about available burial dates.

- [ ] Ask about the no dust-to-dust principle.

- [ ] Obtain the current burial rules.

### Documentation

• Obtain the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, where applicable.
• Complete the appropriate death-registration process.
• Prepare the deceased's identification documents.

- [ ] Prepare the applicant's identification documents.

- [ ] Obtain any required church introduction letter.

- [ ] Prepare evidence of membership or church affiliation, where requested.

- [ ] Prepare any additional documents requested by the administration.

- [ ] Submit the official application.

- [ ] Obtain written confirmation of approval.

### Burial arrangements

- [ ] Confirm the burial date.

- [ ] Confirm the approved time.

- [ ] Confirm the burial location.

- [ ] Confirm the officiating minister.

- [ ] Confirm whether a funeral service is permitted at the Camp.

- [ ] Confirm coffin requirements.

- [ ] Confirm transportation requirements.

- [ ] Confirm grave preparation arrangements.

- [ ] Confirm photography and videography rules.

- [ ] Confirm access and parking arrangements.

- [ ] Confirm whether traditional practices are permitted.

- [ ] Confirm the interment procedure.

### Before burial day

• Complete all outstanding payments.
• - [ ] Obtain official receipts.
• - [ ] Finalise the funeral programme.
• - [ ] Confirm the minister's availability.
• - [ ] Brief the funeral director.
• - [ ] Brief immediate family members.
• - [ ] Arrange transportation.
• - [ ] Confirm arrival instructions.
• Keep copies of all relevant documents.

### After burial

• Obtain available interment documentation.
• - [ ] Confirm grave identification.
• - [ ] Clarify grave maintenance arrangements.
• - [ ] Confirm future visiting arrangements.
• - [ ] Keep all burial records safely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burial at RCCG Redemption Camp

These are a few

1. Can I bury my father at RCCG Redemption Camp? You can make an enquiry with the Memorial Garden administration about the eligibility requirements and application procedure. Do not assume approval until the relevant authority confirms it.

**2. Must the deceased be a member of RCCG?**

Membership requirements should be confirmed directly with the administration. Publicly accessible information does not provide a complete, current eligibility policy for members and non-members.

**3. Can a non-member of RCCG be buried at Redemption City?

A non-member should contact the administration to establish whether the Memorial Garden currently accepts such applications and what conditions apply.

1. Where is the RCCG Memorial Garden located? It is located at Estate 15 within the RCCG Redemption City, around KM 46 of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Mowe, Ogun State, Nigeria.
2. 5. How much does it cost to bury someone at Redemption Camp? There is no current, publicly verifiable official 2026–2027 Memorial Garden fee schedule available in the sources consulted for this guide. Request an official quotation directly from the administration.

**6. How do I book a burial date?**

Begin by contacting the Memorial Garden administration, establishing eligibility, obtaining the application requirements and submitting the appropriate application. The date should be treated as confirmed only after official approval.

**7. Can I choose any burial date?**

No family should assume that every date is available. Confirm the approved burial days, hours and availability.

**8. Can I conduct the funeral service at another church?**

This should be discussed with the administration. Confirm whether an external church service followed by interment at the Memorial Garden is permitted.

**9. Can a pastor from another denomination conduct the burial?**

Obtain confirmation before making the arrangement. Ask whether an external minister may officiate and whether an RCCG minister must participate in the interment.

1. Is throwing sand into the grave permitted? NO. is one of the matters that should be specifically confirmed. Do not assume that the traditional dust-to-dust practice is permitted or prohibited without the administration's current instructions.
2. What is the no dust-to-dust principle? It refers, in the context of the burial question, to the reported restriction on the traditional act of throwing soil or sand into the grave. The precise RCCG Memorial Garden policy and its scope should be confirmed directly.

**12. Can I bring my own coffin?**

Ask the administration about the applicable coffin specifications and whether external coffin suppliers are permitted.

**13. Can I bring my own funeral director?**

Confirm whether external funeral directors and undertakers are allowed and what access requirements apply.

**14. Can I take photographs during the burial?**

Ask about photography and videography restrictions before the burial day.

1. Can I hold a wake-keeping before the burial? A family may organise funeral activities outside the Memorial Garden, subject to applicable laws and the rules of the venues being used. Confirm any restrictions affecting the overall burial arrangement.

**16. Can I bury someone who died outside Nigeria?**

The family should make an enquiry and establish the additional documentation and transportation requirements for international transportation of human remains.

**17. Can a family postpone a burial after securing a date?**

This depends on the administration's rescheduling policy. Contact the office immediately and request written confirmation of the revised arrangement.

**18. Can I visit the grave after burial?**

Ask the administration about visiting hours, access arrangements and any applicable restrictions.

**19. Can I install a headstone or memorial plaque?**

Obtain approval concerning the design, dimensions, materials and installation procedure before commissioning one.

**20. Does RCCG conduct burials for non-Christians?**

The applicable eligibility policy should be obtained directly from the administration. Do not rely on assumptions about the religious background of the deceased.

**21. What is the difference between Redemption Camp and Redemption City?**

They are the same place. Pastor E. A. Adeboye renamed the Camp "Redemption City" on 9 August 2022, but many people still say Redemption Camp.

**22. What documents do I need first?**

Start with the hospital's medical documentation, the deceased's identification, the applicant's identification and, for members, a letter from the Parish Pastor if requested. Then add whatever the administration specifies.

**23. Is death registration free in Nigeria?**

The National Population Commission's death-notification portal states that death registration is free. Confirm the current process on the official portal.

**24. How long does the process take?**

There is no published official timeline. Families who begin early, hold complete documents and secure written approval before announcing a date have the smoothest experience. See the timeline in Section 23.

**25. Who should I contact first?**

RCCG members should contact the deceased's Parish Pastor. Non-members should contact the Memorial Garden administration, starting with the Redemption Camp contact line published by RCCG.

**26. Can the funeral service be held inside Redemption City?**

This depends on the availability and approval of the venue and is a separate arrangement from the burial space. Make a separate enquiry.

**27. Can a spouse be buried beside the deceased later?**

Ask whether adjoining or reserved spaces are available and whether future interments next to an existing grave can be arranged.

**28. Can the remains be exhumed and moved later?**

Exhumation requires legal and administrative approvals. Consult a lawyer and the relevant authorities before any decision.

**29. How do I avoid scams?**

Pay only through officially communicated channels, insist on receipts, verify officials through RCCG's published contacts and treat "guaranteed slot" offers with suspicion. See Section 24.

1. Does this guide give the official RCCG policy? NO. It consolidates publicly available information and practical planning advice, and it clearly marks everything that must be confirmed with the Memorial Garden administration.

## 31. Final Advice: Do Not Wait Until the Burial Week to Begin the Process

Arranging a burial at the RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden requires more than selecting a venue.

It requires proper communication, documentation, administrative approval, financial planning, coordination with the church and a clear understanding of the rules governing the interment.

For RCCG members, the deceased's Parish Pastor is an important starting point for church-related coordination.

For non-members, direct communication with the Memorial Garden administration is particularly important because eligibility and officiating arrangements must be established before the family proceeds.

The most practical advice is to begin the process as early as possible, obtain the current requirements in writing, keep every receipt and approval document, and ensure that the funeral director and officiating minister understand the applicable rules.

Above all, do not leave important questions about the burial procedure, including the reported no dust-to-dust principle, until the day the deceased is to be laid to rest.

A family that understands the process beforehand can make better decisions, avoid unnecessary expenses and devote more attention to what matters most: honouring the life of the person they have lost.

Death is an inevitable part of the human experience, but for Christians, it is not the end of the story.

As Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 4:13–14, Christians do not grieve as those without hope.

May God grant comfort, strength and peace to every family making preparations to lay a loved one to rest.

# Useful Official Resources

Kindly see

• RCCG Official Website: https://www.rccg.org/
• RCCG Redemption City Directory: https://www.rccg.org/the-redemption-city/
• RCCG Redemption Camp Contact Information: https://www.rccg.cc/contact.php
• National Population Commission, Death Notification: https://www.deathnotification.nationalpopulation.gov.ng/
• National Population Commission, Civil Registration: https://nationalpopulation.gov.ng/civil-registration

6. RCCG Order of Church Services: the publicly available RCCG North America Order of Church Services includes a Homegoing Burial Service format. It can be used as a reference for understanding the church's approach to funeral worship, but the Nigerian Memorial Garden administration remains the authority on its own operational procedure.

**Editorial and verification notice:** This guide is intended to help families understand and prepare for the burial process at RCCG Redemption City. Burial fees, eligibility conditions, application forms, operating hours, interment restrictions and administrative procedures may change. Information that has not been confirmed in an official, current Memorial Garden publication has deliberately been identified as requiring direct verification. Families should obtain confirmation from the relevant RCCG administration before making financial commitments or announcing a burial date.

---

# PUBLISHING KIT (Not for Publication: Remove Before Posting)

## A. SEO Metadata

- **Primary keyword:** how to bury a loved one at RCCG Redemption Camp

- **Secondary keywords:** RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden; burial at Redemption Camp; Redemption Camp burial requirements; Redemption Camp burial fees; can non-RCCG members be buried at Redemption Camp; no dust to dust RCCG burial; Redemption Camp burial documentation; RCCG burial application

- **Suggested URL slug:** /how-to-bury-loved-one-rccg-redemption-camp-memorial-garden/

- **Title tag (about 60 characters):** Burial at RCCG Redemption Camp: Guide for 2026–2027

- **- **Image alt-text ideas:** "Entrance to RCCG Redemption City, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway"; "Checklist for burial at the RCCG Memorial Garden"; "Documents needed for burial at Redemption Camp".

- Keep the "Confirmed vs Verify" table. Clearly separating verified facts from unverified ones builds the trust signals that both search engines and AI systems reward.

- Name entities consistently: "RCCG Redemption City of God (Redemption Camp)", "Memorial Garden", "National Population Commission".

- Show the date. Keep "Last updated" visible and update it whenever you verify new facts.

- 

- Add original value no competitor has: the enquiry template, budget planner, timeline, roles table and document master table.

- Do not publish unverified fees or rules. Inaccurate details are the fastest way to lose trust and rankings.

## C. Internal Linking Ideas

- Funeral planning and grief articles on The New Man.

- Any New Man article on RCCG or Pastor E. A. Adeboye.

- Estate planning, wills and succession articles, if you have or plan them on KoloNigeria or the legal sites.

- Funeral cost and financial planning content on KoloNigeria.

Before publishing, obtain these six items from the Memorial Garden administration. They would turn this guide into the definitive operational reference:

1. The actual Memorial Garden application form.

2. The official documentation checklist for RCCG members and non-members.

3. The current burial charges and payment arrangements.

4. The exact procedure for selecting and confirming burial dates.

5. The written rules and regulations governing interment.

6. The official explanation of the no dust-to-dust principle (highest priority, because it is a distinctive search topic and an inaccurate explanation could embarrass The New Man and distress a bereaved family).

Once you have them, replace each "confirm with the administration" instruction with the actual requirement and re-date the article.

## F. Research Notes Retained from the Original Draft

1. **The Memorial Garden is a real, identifiable burial location.** Publicly available reports and funeral announcements identify the RCCG Redemption City Memorial Garden as the interment location. For example, a 2025 funeral announcement for Mrs Sola Adekola expressly identified the Memorial Garden as the burial location. This supports the identification of the facility but does not establish its complete administrative rules.

2. **RCCG has an established burial-service order.** The publicly available RCCG Order of Service includes a burial ceremony section, and the RCCG North America publication provides a Homegoing Burial Service order including reception of the body, hymns, scripture readings, testimonies, exhortation and interment.

3. **Death registration is a separate legal process.** The National Population Commission provides a death-notification platform and identifies death registration as part of Nigeria's compulsory civil-registration framework. Its portal states that registration is free. The article distinguishes the hospital's medical documentation from the NPC's civil-registration documentation.

4. **Do not confuse the PPDC portal with a burial application portal.** The RCCG Physical Planning and Development Control portal handles development permits, land allocation and related planning matters. It is not evidence of a Memorial Garden burial application system.

5. **Additional context found in this round of research:** Pastor E. A. Adeboye renamed Redemption Camp as Redemption City on 9 August 2022, and a published report describes interment at the RCCG Memorial Garden as restricted to family members in at least one case. Neither establishes a general public rule, so neither is stated as one in the article.