In a historic and controversial move, the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has officially declared spiritual independence from the Church of England, marking one of the boldest breaks in the global Anglican community’s history.
The Nigerian church’s leadership announced the decision after Bishop Sarah Mullally, known for her support of same-sex marriage, was appointed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury — the first woman ever to hold the role.
In an official statement, Nigerian Anglican leaders described the move as a “departure from biblical truth” and a reflection of “moral decline within the leadership of the Anglican Communion.”
They emphasized that while they remain rooted in the Anglican faith, they can no longer align with the doctrinal direction of the Church of England, especially on issues of sexual ethics and church authority.
The declaration has stirred global reactions among Christian communities, reigniting long-standing debates about modernization, gender roles, and scriptural fidelity within global Christianity.
Observers say this development could signal a deepening divide within the worldwide Anglican family — potentially reshaping alliances across Africa and beyond.