Nigeria

The Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN)

The Methodist Church Nigeria is spiritually vibrant and committed to evangelism and service. Its vision is to be one of Nigeria’s largest churches, consistently winning souls for Christ, nurturing spiritually fulfilled members, and actively serving humanity.

Rooted in Wesleyan values, MCN Leads social transformation through healthcare, education, and outreach to marginalised communities.

It has established hospitals—including the Wesley Guild Hospital—and centres for leprosy, mental health, and children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, offering care and reintegration for those often rejected by society.

Across Nigeria, MCN has founded numerous schools and theological institutions, nurturing generations of leaders.

The Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN) was established in 1842 by British Wesleyan missionaries, responding to requests from freed slaves returning from Sierra Leone.

From mission stations in Badagry and Abeokuta, the Church expanded west of the River Niger and into parts of northern Nigeria.

In 1893, Primitive Methodist missionaries arrived from Fernando Po, spreading the Church east of the Niger and further north. These regions operated as separate districts until 1962, when they united to form the Conference of Methodist Church Nigeria.

MCN gained autonomy from the British Methodist Church in 1969 and adopted constitutional episcopacy in 1976. It is now led by a Prelate, supported by Arch-Diocesan and Diocesan Lay Presidents.