Under the leadership of Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel, the church in Nigeria is focusing on evangelism, growth and income-generating projects for financial independence and self-sustainability.
“This initiative is both a mission strategy and an economic revolution within our connection,” Emmanuel said. “The vision for agricultural programs for the Nigeria Episcopal Area is to make the church self-sustaining and to combine evangelism with empowerment.”
Growth Seen through Successful Campaign
The bishop launched a $1.7 million agriculture and evangelism project in August. Emmanuel said after the General Council on Finance and Administration’s stewardship training at Africa University in July, the church saw an increase in giving, noting that half of the investment for the agricultural project came directly from members’ contributions.
“(This reflects) renewed trust, accountability and improved stewardship within the connection,” he said. “The other funding comes partly from proceeds from our rice farm, demonstrating our commitment to self-sustenance and the strategic use of income-generating ministries to support the mission of the church.”
The Board of Global Ministries also supported the farming projects through its Yambasu Agriculture Initiative.
To date, the church in Nigeria has purchased two new tractors, seven motorcycles for field evangelism and agricultural supervision, two Toyota Highlander SUVs and a dozen computers for administration to enhance food security.
“We cultivated 100 hectares (250 acres) of rice and soya beans and established a rice-processing company in Jalingo, which now stands as a beacon of sustainable ministry and economic empowerment, and purchased land for agricultural activities in Kurmi, Takum, Garin Dogo and behind Junior Seminary,” Emmanuel said. “We are transforming lives, creating jobs and demonstrating that the church can thrive spiritually and economically.”
The rice farm created 280 jobs during the rainy season and is expected to add 220 more workers in the dry season.
Decades of Dispute Reconciled
This past December, the church in Nigeria held its first joint conference for the church’s five annual conferences, including the reunified Southern Conference.
The Rev. Eunice Iliya, administrative secretary in the bishop’s office, also celebrated the unity and reconciliation in Nigeria.
A Deed of Reconciliation, signed by the church leaders during the Dec. 1-7 joint meeting, ended 13 years of disputes, said the Rev. Abainitus Akila Hamman Jr., director of youth ministries and leadership development.
“This moment represents more than the end of a painful chapter,” he said. “It signals the rebirth of a united witness. In a Nigeria facing insecurity, economic hardship and social fragmentation, a reconciled church stands as a beacon of hope and moral clarity.”
Following the milestones in reconciliation in The United Methodist Church in Nigeria, the governor of Taraba State approved the resumption of worship services in sanctuaries located in Taraba starting in February.
A letter dated Feb. 6 from the government office stated: “Following the successful reconciliation of the United Methodist Church of Nigeria (UMCN) after a prolonged internal dispute, I am directed to formally convey His Excellency, Dr Agbu Kefas, the Governor’s approval for the church to recommence worship services.
“In view of the significance of this reconciliation, all parties are expected to be present at the service as His Excellency will personally attend the church service to demonstrate the government’s goodwill, support and commitment to sustained peace and unity within the church.”
In December, United Methodists in Nigeria also celebrated the withdrawal of a court case filed by the Global Methodist Church. The high court in Jalingo consented to the application to withdraw by the new denomination and awarded The United Methodist Church in Nigeria the costs of the suit.
Your Generosity Helps Bishops Provide Mentorship and Leadership
When you support the Episcopal Fund apportionment you help pay the salaries and expenses for United Methodist Bishops and allows them to travel across their episcopal areas providing mentorship and leadership. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Episcopal Fund apportionment at 100 percent.
excerpt from a story by Eveline Chikwanah,UM News correspondent based in Harare, Zimbabwe.
This story shows the impact of the Episcopal Fund—one of seven apportionment funds of The United Methodist Church—to sustain the leadership and oversight of bishops who guide our shared mission. Through this fund, the Church provides fair compensation, support, and accountability for episcopal leadership across the connection. Together, we ensure that every conference has the guidance needed to carry out ministry effectively and faithfully.
When your church supports the Episcopal Fund, you uphold the shared leadership that unites our Church in mission and ministry.
