The United Methodist Church in Nigeria (UMCN) has urged President Bola Tinubu to take urgent policy action to address pressing national issues, including youth unemployment, poverty, hunger, and insecurity.

In a communiqué signed by Mr. Anchau Andrew at the weekend at the end of its joint annual conference in Jalingo, Taraba State, UMCN emphasised the need for immediate interventions to alleviate widespread suffering nationwide.

The church also raised concerns over the closure of its worship centers in Taraba State, describing the situation as a significant source of emotional and physical hardship for its members.

The church also called on the state government and religious leaders to mediate and resolve the ongoing dispute between the church and a breakaway faction.

As part of its resolutions, the conference announced plans to establish a West Africa Central Conference addendum to the Book of Discipline, ensuring alignment with national laws while upholding the traditional definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, in line with the church’s Social Principles.

UMCN condemned all forms of killings and human rights violations in Nigeria, emphasising the importance of preserving human dignity and promoting peace.

Regarding an ongoing legal dispute over UMCN school properties currently controlled by the breakaway faction, the church resolved to seek a court injunction. It also reaffirmed its decision to rename Banyam Theological Seminary (BTS) to United Methodist Church University, Bambur.

To combat illiteracy, UMCN pledged to revive its Adult Education programme and enhance educational opportunities within the church and society.

The communiqué also called for the revival of UMCN Nursery and Primary School in Jalingo and the integration of Accelerated Christian
Education (ACE) into all UMCN school curriculums.