UMCN Unveils 2026 Vision, Targets Church Growth, Jobs, Youth Empowerment

 

The Bishop of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Nigeria, Cameroon and Senegal, Ande I. Emmanuel, has unveiled the Church's 2026 theme, "Behold, I Am Doing a New Thing" from Isaiah 43:19, describing it as a call to renewal, restoration and purposeful action.

Speaking with journalists at a workshop and leadership training for administrative leaders at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, Mile Six, Jalingo, the Bishop said the meeting was convened to refresh and encourage church leaders and to develop a clear action plan for administering the Church in 2026.

He said the theme reflects God's promise of restoration and aligns with the Church's vision for growth and impact.

The UMC has adopted a seven-point agenda for 2026.

 

Evangelism and discipleship top the list, with a target of opening 30 new churches across Nigeria, Cameroon and Senegal.

 

The second focus is peace and reconciliation, aimed at strengthening unity within the Church.

 

Under agricultural development, the Church has invested ₦2.5 billion in rice farming, creating over 500 jobs in Nigeria, with plans to expand the initiative.

 

In education and leadership development, the Bishop disclosed plans to sponsor 25 individuals for further studies, including PhD, master's and undergraduate programmes.

 

The Church will also train 100 youths in welding, electrical work and basic electronics through a new electrical and welding school in Jalingo.

 

Another 100 women will be trained in tailoring and catering to promote self-reliance and community development.

 

The Bishop said the Church has set policies, resources and supervision mechanisms to ensure effective implementation.

 

He noted that restoring trust after internal conflicts was a major challenge in his first year in office, but said confidence has since been rebuilt.

 

He urged members to remain peaceful and law-abiding and to take the Church beyond worship centres through community impact.