The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has decided to completely end its relationship with the Church of Wales. This move follows the recent appointment of Bishop Cherry Vann, who is openly gay, as the new Archbishop of Wales.
This announcement was made by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, during the Church Conference of Chancellors, Registrars, and Legal Officers. The event took place in Abuja on Tuesday, August 5.
This year’s conference carried the theme “Called as a Watchman”, highlighting key issues surrounding doctrine and governance within the church. It brought together important legal and church officials.
During his speech, Archbishop Ndukuba strongly criticized the appointment of Bishop Vann. He described her selection as “an abomination” and said it went against the teachings of the Bible.
He referenced recent media reports covering the event, claiming that some Western churches, including the Church of Wales, have continued pushing what he called “evil agendas.” He stated that such actions are not aligned with God’s word, even if they are accepted as culture or wisdom by some.
Ndukuba expressed sadness over the decision to elect Bishop Vann, pointing out that her sexual orientation is a major concern for the Nigerian church. He explained that while she had been part of the church for a long time, she only publicly came out after becoming a bishop, and has since continued to support her stance.
He further stated that the Church of Nigeria cannot accept her appointment as Archbishop of Wales. He recalled how the church responded in a similar way in 2003, when Gene Robinson became the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church in the United States.
Just like they cut ties back then, the Church of Nigeria is now taking the same stand against the Church of Wales. Ndukuba made it clear that they are ending every form of relationship between the two churches.
Despite this, he expressed support for members of the Anglican Church in Wales who remain faithful to traditional teachings. He promised that Nigeria will continue to support them through conservative Christian groups like the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON).
