The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has officially broken all ties with the Church in Wales following the appointment of Bishop Cherry Vann, an openly lesbian cleric, as Archbishop of Wales.
The announcement was made in Abuja by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba. He described the development as a clear rejection of biblical doctrine and likened it to the 2003 consecration of Gene Robinson in the United States, which had also triggered Nigeria’s separation from the Episcopal Church.
Speaking at the 14th Church of Nigeria Conference of Chancellors, Registrars and Legal Officers, Ndukuba said the Church could not remain aligned with any institution that embraces what he called “unbiblical practices.” The event, held at the national secretariat, brought together legal experts from across the denomination to address issues around justice, governance, and doctrine.
During his keynote speech, Ndukuba declared that the Church of Nigeria could not support the election of Archbishop Vann. He said this decision is part of a broader stand against what he called “revisionist teachings” spreading through parts of the Western Church.
“These actions are not signs of progress. They are an outright rebellion against God’s Word,” he said. He also emphasized that the Church of Nigeria remains committed to supporting orthodox Anglican communities, especially through partnerships like the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON).
Despite the break, the Primate encouraged faithful Anglicans in Wales to stay strong. He assured them that Nigeria and GAFCON would continue to offer spiritual and organizational support.
He further revealed plans to expand the Church’s missionary work in Europe, mentioning ongoing registration efforts in countries like Germany, Finland, and the Netherlands. According to him, the Church feels “called back” to Europe to help restore biblical faith among Anglicans.
The Church of Nigeria has also contributed $2.5 million to the GAFCON Endowment Fund and is setting up a separate Nigerian-based fund of $2.3 million to strengthen its orthodox mission efforts.
Addressing legal officers at the conference, Ndukuba called for stronger internal legal reforms and urged the professionals to help guide the Church’s constitutional revision. He also encouraged them to advocate for a fresh constitution for Nigeria, reminding them of their duty as “watchmen” of the Church.
He stressed that their role involves listening to God first, then defending truth with wisdom and love.
