Bishop Ande Emmanuel, who was elected to the Episcopacy at the Quadrennial session of the West Africa Central Conference under the United Methodist Church last year, had a familiarization and interactive session with Nigerian students at Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe, on July 23, 2025.
He was consecrated on December 8, 2024, and assigned as bishop of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria and the Mission Districts of Senegal and Cameroon, which include these annual conferences.
Since Africa University accommodate, students from various countries including West Africa
The meeting aimed at understanding the challenges and needs of the students and to build a stronger connection between the students and the episcopal office.
“Today, I had the honor of paying a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor of Africa University, Zimbabwe. Our conversation centered on strengthening the partnership between the United Methodist Church Nigeria Episcopal Area, including the Mission Districts of Senegal and Cameroon—and this great institution.”
“We explored opportunities for collaboration in theological education, leadership development, and mission support. Africa University continues to shine as a beacon of hope and excellence in shaping future leaders for the Church and society across the continent.
Grateful for the warm welcome and shared vision for the future,” he said.
The students openly shared their concerns and struggles, as Bishop Ande listened.
After hearing their plights, he pledged that the episcopal office is committed to addressing their challenges. The bishop straight away announced the creation of a new position of “Campus Ministry director” specifically designed to bring the UMC students under one umbrella so as to foster unity and build synergy with the church.
The Bishop said Jettai Pepsi Micah is being appointed as the Coordinator of the Campus Ministry, who will serve as the liaison person between the students and the episcopal office.
“This new Ministry will ensure that students pursuing higher education stay connected with the episcopal office. This will help the episcopal office provide them with the necessary support and guidance,” Bishop Ande said.
The students were overjoyed with the initiative and expressed gratitude to Bishop Ande for his leadership and commitment to their welfare. The Campus Ministry is expected to play a vital role in addressing the needs of United Methodist Students who are studying within and outside Nigeria.
