Church of Nigeria Cuts Ties with Church in Wales Over Lesbian Archbishop Appointment

The Church of Nigeria has officially ended its relationship with the Church in Wales following the election of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann, an openly lesbian bishop, as Archbishop of Wales.

The announcement was made by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, during the Anglican Chancellors, Registrars, and Legal Officers Conference (ACRLOC) in Abuja.

Ndukuba called the election a clear break from biblical doctrine and said the Church of Nigeria would not recognize Vann’s leadership.

“The election of the Right Reverend Cherry Vann as the Archbishop of Wales is never recognized by the Church of Nigeria. We reject it. We are severing every tie and relationship with the Church of Wales,” he said.

He criticized what he described as the West’s attempt to replace biblical authority with cultural trends, calling it “an abomination before God.”

Ndukuba reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to orthodox Anglican groups, including GAFCON, and partnerships with churches in Rwanda, Uganda, and others that share similar theological positions.

“There is no turning back. We shall continue to focus on mission, evangelism, discipleship, and preparing the Church for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Addressing the legal professionals in attendance, Ndukuba urged them to act as moral watchmen and speak out when church doctrine is challenged.

“If the watchman fails to warn the people, blood is on his hands. Likewise, you must speak when truth is under threat, even when legal correctness conflicts with godly conviction.”

He praised their work — often done without pay — and encouraged them to stay grounded in their faith.

The Church also acknowledged members recently promoted to Judges and Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) and offered condolences to those who had experienced loss.

“The gates of hell shall not prevail against us,” Ndukuba said. “We press on with perseverance and hope, trusting that He who began this good work will bring it to completion.”