Bishop Ande Emmanuel Turns 46, Celebrates With Patients, Widows In Jalingo

The Resident Bishop of the United Methodist Church Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau Episcopal Area, Bishop Ande  Emmanuel, marked his 46th birthday with a humanitarian outreach to patients, widows, orphans and healthcare workers at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo.

Rather than a private celebration, the cleric chose to spend the day among vulnerable members of society, distributing food items, clothing, diapers, detergents and cash gifts to those in need.

Speaking during the visit, Bishop Emmanuel said his decision was inspired by his belief that life is a gift from God that should be used to impact others, especially the less privileged.

“Birthdays are moments of thanksgiving, and there is no better way to thank God than by sharing His love with those who need it most. The sick, widows and the less privileged should never feel forgotten,” he said.

He noted that the sick, widows and orphans remain among the most vulnerable in society and deserve compassion, prayers and support.

The bishop also commended doctors and nurses at the facility for their dedication and sacrifices, describing them as unsung heroes whose contributions to humanity should be appreciated.

He said the outreach was aimed at encouraging both patients and healthcare workers through prayers, gifts and words of hope.

The event coincided with World Hepatitis Day, with the bishop using the occasion to urge Nigerians to take advantage of available health services by getting tested for hepatitis and prioritising regular medical check-ups.

He stressed that early detection and access to proper treatment remain critical in tackling diseases.

The Deputy Director of Nursing Services and Head of the Paediatrics Unit, Nurse Rose Danzumi Solomon, commended the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful.

She said the donated items would ease the burden on patients and caregivers while complementing the hospital’s efforts to deliver quality healthcare services.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ruya Samuel M. Sule, speaking on behalf of widows, expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the gesture cut across religious and social boundaries.

The outreach featured prayers, songs of praise and moments of reflection, as beneficiaries received both material support and spiritual encouragement.

Bishop Emmanuel reiterated the need for compassion and service to humanity, noting that true celebration lies in giving and uplifting others.