A COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE 161ST GENERAL CHURCH COUNCIL (SYNOD) OF THE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH-NIGERIA, (CRC-NIGERIA), HELD FROM MONDAY 24TH NOVEMBER- FRIDAY 28TH NOVEMBER, 2025 AT CRC-N NO1, TAKUM
The Christian Reformed Church-Nigeria (CRC-Nigeria) held its 161st General Church Council meeting from Monday 24th November-Friday 28th November, 2025, at CRC-N No.1 Takum, Taraba State. Present at the meeting were the President of the Church Rev. (Dr) Isaiah Jirapye Magaji, the Vice President, Rev. (Dr) Bulus W.E Surupe, the General Secretary, Rev. Joseph Agbu Ahmadu Garba, the Assistant General Secretary, Rev. Japheth Vosine Ayuba, the Human Resource Manager (DPM), Rev. Bulus Danjuma Oded, Director of Finance Elder Victor Timothy, members of the Board of Trustees, Committee of Advisers, RCC and LCC Chairmen, Provost, Principals and Directors of institutions, programmes and Boards, Women’s Fellowship Leaders, voting and non-voting delegates from the 20 Regional Church Councils (RCCs) of the Church spread across Nigeria.
After extensive deliberations on crucial matters affecting the church and sensitive issues affecting the Nation at large, the General Church Council resolved as follows:
1. The Christian Reformed Church, Nigeria CRC-N reaffirmed its position that there is ongoing Christian genocide in Nigeria as observed by the American President Donald J. Trump, and expresses it support to the American President’s move to fight terrorism and banditry in Nigeria. The Church also expressed concern that despite the warning and designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the American President, the security situation continues to deteriorate with recent renewed attacks targeted on schools and Christian gatherings. CRC-N expressed deep concern that, rather than coming together to address the worsening insecurity, some top government officials appear unwilling to confront the reality on the ground but rather playing politics with the issue. The Church also notes with worry that certain public figures, including Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, have made statements perceived as sympathetic to bandits without facing investigation or caution from the relevant authorities.
2. The Synod laments that schools have increasingly become soft targets of the terrorists and bandits, forcing many boarding schools to shut down, a development it described as a tragic setback to national progress. It therefore calls on the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate genuine commitment through decisive and tangible actions to protect all citizens. The Synod further urges the government to intensify efforts against terrorism, banditry, and all forms of violent extremism, to ensure that Nigeria becomes a safe and secure nation for everyone, regardless of faith or background. The Synod acknowledges and commends the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in significantly reducing the frequency of attacks across the nation, while noting the concern over recent unfortunate incidents.
3. The Synod strongly condemns the recent Bandits attacks on some Tiv Communities in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba state, which led to the destruction of farmlands, residential properties, and the tragic loss of lives. It commends the prompt response of the Taraba State Government under Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, particularly the intervention by the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Jalingo, who led sustained operations in the affected areas to restore peace and security.
4. The Church resolved to leverage available digital platforms and devices, and to collaborate with relevant bodies to provide the Bible in audiovisual, oral, and digital formats in languages people understand. This initiative aims to position the Gospel within the digital space where people now spend much of their time, ensuring more effective scriptural engagement and preparing the Church for the heavenly kingdom.
5. The Church resolved that Children’s Sunday School be structured into age-appropriate classes to ensure effective discipleship and learning in accordance with Scripture, with learners reaching adulthood graduated into the Adult Church.
6. The Synod congratulates the newly elected Chairmen of the 16 Local Government Areas of Taraba State and urges them to lead with integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of duty as they serve the people.
7. The Synod approved “LOVE MANDATE” as the official theme of the Church for the year 2026, drawn from John 13:34–35; 15:9–13. The theme emphasized Christ’s call to unconditional love as fundamental to the Christian journey.
8. The Synod received a special visit from the President of the Christian Reformed Church, Sierra Leone, Rev. Moses Musa Jawara. The Church reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining and strengthening its partnership with the Church in Sierra Leone and expressed its desire for the relationship to grow even stronger. It also notes other dignitaries from Taraba State Chapter of TEKAN/ECWA Church Bloc and the Reformed Church Christ for Nations (RCCN) Headquarters Takum.
9. The Synod felicitates with the CRC-N representative at TCNN, Bukuru in Plateau State, Rev Dr. Isaiah Bako Hinkon, on his appointment as Deputy Provost of the College. It also congratulates Rev. Prof. Enoch Terlumun Iortyom on his appointment as Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone (Magburka Campus), and prays for greater grace to finish well and honor God in these responsibilities.
10. 17 new Pastors were ordained at the SYNOD who will serve in the Pastoral Ministry of the church.
11. The Synod noted the formal retirement of the former President, Apostle Rev. Istifanus Bala Bahago, following his successful completion of the mandatory 35 years of service. The Church expressed profound gratitude for his dedicated and exemplary leadership and extended its best wishes to him in all future endeavors.
12. The Synod felicitates with CRC-N members and the entire body of Christ on the occasion of the forth-coming Christmas and New Year celebrations. It urges people to recommit themselves to true virtues, fairness and justice in order to make the world a better place.
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Rev. Dr. Isaiah Jirapye Magaji
CRC-N President
Rev. Joseph Agbu Ahmadu Garba
General Secretary
