PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The United Methodist Church (UMC) Nigeria Episcopal Area, Senegal and Cameroon Districts regrets to announce that a devastating windstorm has destroyed the church building of United Methodist Church, Garu Gutumbur, located in Didango District of Taraba State
The incident occurred on March 26, 2026, when a violent storm swept through the community, leaving the church structure completely damaged. The destruction has rendered over 300 worshippers without a place of fellowship and communal worship
Despite ongoing challenges within the global Methodist community, the Garu Gutumbur congregation has remained steadfast in its faith and commitment to the United Methodist Church. This unfortunate disaster has further compounded the difficulties faced by the congregation and the wider Didango District.
The Church is therefore appealing to individuals, partners, and well-meaning organizations for support towards rebuilding the structure. The proposed reconstruction will be carried out on the existing concrete foundation using cost-effective compressed earth blocks, with the new building maintaining the original dimensions of approximately 60 by 50 meters.
The estimated cost of reconstruction is $16,000.
The United Methodist Church calls on all stakeholders to support this effort in restoring a vital center of worship and community life for the affected congregation.
Signed:
Reverend Filibus Bakari Auta
Director of Communications, UMC Nigeria Episcopal Area, Senegal and Cameroon Districts
