The mission train under the leadership Dr. William Baikie arrived Onitsha on Sunday, 26 July 1857.
On 27 July 1857 the king of Onitsha, Obi Akazua and his elders-in-council gave the party a warm official welcome.
Hence, 27 July came to be regarded as the beginning of the Church Missionary Society (CMS) mission in Igbo land.
[6] The design of the main building is largely rectangular in structure with semi-parabolic arches constructed from concrete and ironstone.
The other structures built included a rectangular transeptal tower oblong in shape, a nave of four bays and a narthex porch.
Construction of the cathedral began when the foundation stone was laid by then colonial Governor John McPherson.
Mother and Nurse of many infant Sees Teacher of doctrine, unsullied by grease Captain of Knights, in the Lord's martial train Niger!