Church moves to review policies on, sexuality, remarriage ahead of 2026

The Southern Nigeria Annual Conference (SNAC) of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria has restated its long-standing teachings on human sexuality.

The church described sexuality as a gift from God that should be used responsibly and with moral discipline.

In a statement released in Taraba State on Wednesday, the church emphasized that marriage, based on its biblical belief, is strictly between one adult man and one adult woman.

The church also condemned any form of sexual abuse, exploitation, commercial sex, and violence, especially against children. It urged government authorities to provide stronger protection for vulnerable groups and more counseling and rehabilitation for victims of sexual violence.

The communiqué was signed by Edison Edward Baraya, Rev. Esther Ibrahim, and Ifechukwu Daniel Jack. The conference thanked Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for improvements in reducing kidnapping and banditry, but expressed worry about ongoing violent attacks in areas such as Bandawa, Munga Dosso, Munga Lelaw, Shomo, Takum, and surrounding communities.

SNAC criticized what it described as a weak response from the federal government to rising insecurity in northern Nigeria. It also called on attackers to repent.

As part of decisions made at the 44th Session of the Conference, the church approved major structural changes. A new Southern Nigeria Episcopal Area will now be created to cover only the current SNAC. Meanwhile, the Cameroon Mission District, and the North-East, Central, and Northern Conferences, along with Senegal, will form a new North-Central Episcopal Area.

The Conference also praised a committee working on boundary arrangements within the church, saying this will strengthen unity and improve administration.

SNAC approved the setting up of a Special Committee on Remarriage to review church guidelines, which will be presented in 2026.

The Board of Ordained Ministry was also instructed to secure officially recognized certification and licenses for clergy where needed.

Discussing ongoing tensions between the United Methodist Church in Nigeria (UMCN) and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria (GMCN), SNAC announced a one-year ban starting January 1, 2026 on sharing pulpits and joint worship between members of both churches.

The policy may be reviewed at next year’s conference as efforts toward reconciliation continue.