African Church inaugurates Sombo Maihula Diocese,
as Primate reaffirms commitment to gospel truth
By Williams Ayooso
MAIHULA, Taraba State — The African Church has inaugurated the Sombo Maihula Diocese in Maihula, Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State, marking a significant milestone in the denomination’s growth and bringing church administration closer to worshippers in the area.
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The inauguration, held on October 7, was performed by His Eminence, Julius Olayina Osayande Abbe (JP), Primate of the African Church, who travelled from Lagos to preside over the ceremony. The new diocese was carved out of the African Church, Makurdi Province, following years of effort and perseverance by clergy and members.
Describing the occasion as a fulfilment of the church’s longstanding aspiration, Primate Abbe said his commitment to God’s work made the journey worthwhile.
“Nothing could be more important or interesting to me than doing the business of God,” he said, commending the faith and enthusiasm of the congregation. He said.
Impressed by the large turnout, the Primate said Maihula should not be defined by its rural setting but recognised as a community of people devoted to serving God.
“To me, it’s not a village. It is a place where the people of God are found,” he declared.
Abbe explained that the African Church promotes African cultural expressions, including indigenous languages, music and dance, in Christian worship. However, he stressed that its ultimate mission remained the salvation of souls and adherence to biblical truth.
“The ultimate goal is the salvation of the souls of all the worshippers,” he said, reaffirming the church’s commitment to the Gospel despite challenges posed by competing religious teachings.
The Archbishop of the African Church, Makurdi Province, His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas Mne Uzua, also expressed joy over the inauguration, describing it as an achievement made possible by God’s grace and the dedication of church members.
He noted that preparations for the Primate’s visit had resulted in improvements to the church premises, including the repainting of the church building and vicarage. He urged worshippers to sustain their commitment, expressing hope that the new diocese would usher in spiritual growth and further progress.
For Venerable Saawa Nathaniel, Cathedral Provost of the new diocese, the inauguration represented the triumph of faith over years of challenges and uncertainty. He expressed gratitude that the aspiration had finally become reality, urging members to embrace and develop the diocese.
“It’s only God that made this day to be a reality,” he said.
Venerable Saawa also recounted personal setbacks encountered during the process, including the removal of his name from consideration for episcopal elevation. Nevertheless, he urged the congregation to see the inauguration as the beginning of greater responsibilities and opportunities.
Brother Matthew Anongo, Vice Lay President of the diocese, described the event as a major development for the community. He acknowledged the challenges of mobilising the large congregation but attributed the success to divine assistance and the collective efforts of members. He urged the faithful to remain humble, loyal and steadfast in their service to God.
The ceremony attracted traditional leaders and members of other Christian denominations, highlighting the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among Christians.
Zaki David Gbaa Tela (JP), Ter Tiv Bali and Tiv Central Leader in Taraba State, said he attended to welcome the Primate to his jurisdiction and support the African Church. Although a Catholic, he maintained that denominational differences should not undermine the shared Christian faith.
“We are all members of the body of Christ,” he said.
The traditional ruler noted that worshippers had previously travelled to Takum and Makurdi for church-related activities, expressing optimism that the new diocese would ease access to church administration and strengthen the African Church’s presence across Taraba State.
He also commended the Primate’s advocacy for peace and condemnation of terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal activities, urging Christians to embrace mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
The inauguration of Sombo Mbewula Diocese marks a new chapter for the African Church in Maihula and neighbouring communities. Beyond the celebration, church leaders called on members to sustain the achievement through unity, faithful service and commitment to the Gospel.
For the congregation, the challenge now is to build on the milestone by strengthening the church’s ministry, deepening fellowship and extending its positive influence across the community.
