The leadership of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria, UMCN, has called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to implement urgent policy measures to tackle youth unemployment, poverty, hunger, and insecurity, including the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency.
In a communiqué issued weekend at the conclusion of its joint annual conference in Jalingo, Taraba State, UMCN emphasized the need for swift action to alleviate widespread suffering across the country.
Signed by the chairman of the communique committee, Mr Anchau Andrew, the church also raised concerns over the closure of its worship centers in Taraba State, describing the situation as a source of emotional and physical hardship for its members.
It urged the state government and religious leaders to intervene and facilitate a resolution to the dispute between the church and a breakaway faction.
As part of its resolutions, the Church maintained the traditional definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, in accordance with the church’s Social Principles.
UMCN also condemned all forms of killings and human rights violations in the country, stressing the need to uphold human dignity and promote peace.
Amid an ongoing legal battle over the ownership of UMCN school properties currently controlled by the breakaway faction, the church resolved to seek a court injunction.
Additionally, it reaffirmed its decision to rename Banyam Theological Seminary (BTS) to United Methodist Church University, Bambur.
To address literacy challenges, UMCN resolved to revive its Adult Education program and accelerate efforts to enhance education within the church and society.
The communiqué also called for the revival of UMCN Nursery and Primary School in Jalingo, with plans to integrate Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) into all UMCN school curriculums.
