By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Southern Conference of the United Methodist Church UMC has expresses deep concern over continued attacks and violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria, resulting in loss of life and displacement.
The Conference stated this in a Communique issue at the end of its 43rd Annual Conference session held at UMC No 1 Zing, Taraba State from 1-7 December 2025.
“We condemn all forms of terrorism and violent extremism and call for stronger security measures, justice for victims, and coordinated humanitarian support. We further appeal for global Christian solidarity in advocating for peace, protection, and human dignity.
As a Conference we call for strengthened unity among denominations. Cooperation in prayer, advocacy, community outreach, and mutual support is encouraged.
“We emphasize that unity enhances resilience, deepens witness, and strengthens hope during times of persecution.
The Conference affirms its unwavering support for the African Bishops of the United Methodist Church as they uphold biblical teachings on human sexuality, marriage, and family life.
“We reaffirm marriage as a sacred covenant between one man and one woman and commend the Bishops for their moral clarity and commitment to culturally grounded Christian values. The Conference stands in solidarity with their efforts to preserve the unity, holiness, and doctrinal integrity of the Church in Africa and the global connection.
“We commend Bishop Ande Emmanuel for his resilience, dedication, and efforts in holistic community development, church growth, and spiritual transformation across the conference.
The Conference emphasizes on Henry Venn’s principles of self-reliance, self-governance, and self-propagation as viable models for modern Christian entrepreneurship.
“We encourage innovative, ethical, and sustainable economic practices that empower congregations, promote financial independence, and strengthen mission work.
The Conference calls for capacity-building programs and youth-focused entrepreneurship initiatives within the Church.
The Conference reaffirms its commitment to intentional evangelism rooted in compassion and biblical truth.
“We emphasize well-structured discipleship, leadership development, and mentoring as key to sustainable church growth. Delegates encourage strategic planning, digital evangelism, community engagement, and the nurturing of lay leadership for holistic ministry expansion.
The Conference underscores the transformative power of education and advocates investment in schools, training centers, and scholarship programs.
“We call for structured leadership development initiatives to equip youth, clergy, and laity with the skills needed for ministry, community service, and nation-building. The Church remains committed to supporting educational access and empowering emerging leaders.
The Conference expresses grave concern over Nigeria’s worsening fiscal situation, specifically the rising debt servicing obligations which severely limit national development. Key financial data for 2024 revealed:
debt Servicing: ₦12.36 trillion on debt servicing (35.26% of the budget)
fiscal Deficit: N13,51 trillion (exceeding projections by 47.3%). Debt to GDP Ratio: 61.22% (exceeding national and international thresholds).
The conference calls for prudent fiscal management, transparency and policies that prioritize economic stability and citizen’s welfare.
The Conference calls for renewed commitment to peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation within the Church. Members are encouraged to embrace dialogue, resolve conflicts amicably, and promote harmony to strengthen our collective witness. A united Church remains a powerful instrument of healing in a divided society.
On gender equity, the Conference affirms the biblical dignity of all persons and advocates gender equity across leadership, ministry, and community engagement.
“We call for equal opportunity, respect, and recognition of the diverse gifts God has given to both men and women for the advancement of the Church and society.
On climate change, global warming and the need for a green world, the Conference acknowledges the escalating impact of climate change and global warming including desertification, flooding and erratic rainfall on communities, food security.
“We call for stronger climate-responsive policies and collective action toward environment environment stewardship.
Members of Communique Committee includes,Rev. Dr. Ezra D. Danko – Chairman, Rev. Abainitus A. Hamman, Member, Rev. Robinson Sanwere, Member, Rev. Lydia Andrew, Member, Bro. Tome W. Bala, Member, Mrs. Happy Elkanah, Member while Rev. Ambrose Ibrahim Keto, Communique Secretary,
Rev. Ezekiel John Lantoya, Conference Secretary and His Lordship, Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel – Presiding Bishop.