By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Fellowship of Churches of Christ in Nigeria (TEKAN) has commended the Federal Government for partnering with the United States and other foreign governments to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.The commendation was contained in a communiqué issued after TEKAN’s 70th General Assembly, held in Benue State, and made available to journalists in Jos. The communiqué was jointly signed by Rev. Joel Billi, President of TEKAN, and Rev. Augustine Akawu Elisha, its General Secretary.According to the communiqué, the 70th General Assembly was held under the theme “Rooted in Christ for the Renewal of the Nations” (Colossians 2:6), which emphasised the need for the Church to actively engage society with values that promote peace, justice, and renewal.
TEKAN expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, noting that a country once known for peaceful coexistence has now been designated by the United States government as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC).The Christian body urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to combat terrorism and insecurity, stressing the need to apprehend perpetrators and their sponsors and ensure they are brought to justice.“
The Assembly is outraged and utterly condemns the continuous killing of innocent Nigerians and the destruction of properties belonging to our members by Fulani herdsmen and other terrorist groups across the country,” the communiqué stated. While appreciating the sacrifices of security personnel, TEKAN called on the Federal Government to do more within its constitutional mandate to end violent attacks nationwide. It also strongly condemned the killing of over 200 Christians in **Yelwata, Benue State, as well as attacks in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas of Plateau State**, and recurring crises in Takum, Ussa, and the Yangtu Development Area, among others.On economic matters, TEKAN expressed concern over newly introduced tax laws, describing them as potentially burdensome to citizens.“
The Assembly views the new tax laws as a deliberate attempt to weaken the economic power of Nigerians through excessive taxation,” it said, calling on the National Assembly and the Federal Government to review the tax reform legislation.The fellowship also acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts to integrate religious-economic policies into the national economy but cautioned that policies such as the Halal economy must be implemented with sensitivity to Nigeria’s secular, multicultural, and multi-religious character.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, TEKAN urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly to fast-track amendments to the Electoral Act to make electronic transmission of election results mandatory. It also encouraged its members to participate actively in the electoral process by voting for credible candidates.
On agriculture, TEKAN commended improvements recorded in the sector but appealed to the Federal Government to subsidise farming inputs such as fertilisers and pesticides to support farmers amid declining market prices.The Assembly also announced the election of new national officers, including Rev. Dr. Filibu Musa as President, Rev. Dr. Nendaga Asongo Adure as Vice President, Rev. Dr. Victor Audu as Assistant General Secretary and Treasurer, and Dr. Mrs. Justina Dama as head of Security.
TEKAN further expressed appreciation to its host community, NKST Mkar-Gboko in Benue State, as well as security agencies and volunteers for ensuring a peaceful and orderly assembly.Founded in 1955, TEKAN has over 35 million members across 15 denominational churches united by shared evangelical heritage and Christian doctrine.
