By Jako Keke, February 22, 2026.
After ten years of silence, the ancient bells of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria, Jatutu Memorial Cathedral, Magami in Jalingo rang out again on Sunday, as worshippers gathered for a historic Thanksgiving Service for Unity and Reconciliation.
The reopening of the cathedral once shut down by a protracted internal crisis has been widely described as a turning point for the Christian community in Taraba State. At the heart of the celebration was the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, who not only facilitated the peace process leading to the reopening but also mounted the pulpit as guest preacher.
For a decade, the imposing cathedral at Magami stood as a symbol of division. The crisis that engulfed the church fractured relationships and disrupted worship, leaving members scattered and the sanctuary locked.
However, behind the scenes, sustained dialogue, reconciliation meetings, and confidence-building efforts championed by Governor Kefas and other stakeholders gradually paved the way for healing. Sunday’s reopening was therefore more than a ceremonial event; it was the culmination of years of mediation and prayer.
Governor Kefas acknowledged the painful past but expressed gratitude that peace had finally returned, describing the crisis as “unfortunate” and avoidable. He said the restoration of harmony among members informed the decision to reopen the cathedral after ten years of closure.
Delivering a sermon titled “Deliverance from Toxic Relationship,” the governor charged believers to be their brother’s keeper and to love one another in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
He reminded Christians that the world views Christ through their conduct.
“Jesus Christ is the mirror through which people watch and assess Christians,” he said, urging the congregation to reflect Christ-like virtues in their daily lives.
Drawing lessons from the biblical story of Cain and Abel, Governor Kefas warned that jealousy, hatred, and rivalry often beginning within families can escalate into destructive crises if not checked. He called on believers to shun divisive tendencies and embrace forgiveness, unity, and reconciliation.
Observers noted that the governor’s message resonated deeply, given the church’s recent history. His emphasis on healing relationships and avoiding toxic associations mirrored the reconciliation process that restored the cathedral.
In his welcome address, the Resident Bishop of the Nigeria Episcopal Area and Mission Districts of Cameroon and Senegal, Ande Emmanuel, described the reopening as historic.
He appreciated Governor Kefas for his pivotal role in restoring peace and facilitating the reopening of the cathedral, noting that the church had remained closed for a decade.
Bishop Emmanuel assured the governor of the church’s continued prayers and support for his administration, expressing optimism that the renewed unity would strengthen the body of Christ in the state and beyond.
The thanksgiving service featured special prayers, Holy Communion, and goodwill messages from representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria and other Christian bodies.
For many worshippers, the day was emotional. Some described it as a “homecoming,” while others saw it as a powerful testimony that dialogue and forgiveness can overcome even the deepest divisions.
Beyond the church walls, the reopening of Jatutu Memorial Cathedral sends a broader message about peacebuilding in Taraba State a state historically challenged by communal and religious tensions. Analysts say the governor’s direct involvement signals his administration’s commitment to fostering unity across religious and ethnic lines.
While the celebration marked the end of a painful chapter, speakers at the event emphasized that sustaining peace requires continuous effort.
Governor Kefas urged members to guard the unity they have regained and to work collectively for the propagation of God’s word. He stressed that reconciliation must move beyond words to genuine transformation in attitudes and relationships.
As hymns filled the once-quiet sanctuary and congregants exchanged embraces, the reopening of Jatutu Memorial Cathedral stood as a powerful reminder: even after years of division, faith, dialogue, and leadership can restore what was once thought lost.
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