A Decade Later

My first trip to Nigeria was in 2000. This is my third, and each time I come I see progress and change. Let me share a few things.

• There are many more major roads that have been improved.
• The naira is now printed in multiple denominations instead of just N100 bills. This makes working with money a great deal easier.
• We can fly into an International Airport in Abuja.
• Abuja, the capital city, is a place of great construction and development featuring both a national Cathedral (National Christian Center) and a national Mosque.
• Cell phones! Cell phones have made communication easier and better and have been a benefit within the LCCN.
• Motorbikes are everywhere, which does allow more movement in the country and from rural areas into cities. It also makes driving an interesting experience.
• The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria keeps growing with the new Abuja diocese added in the past year and work on another within the Taraba Sate.
• 34 women have been ordained and nine have entered theological studies this year at Bronum Seminary
• There is an established partnership between the LCCN, Mission Afrika of the Danish Lutherans, The ELCA Global Missions, our Minneapolis Area Synod, and Global Health Ministry with an annual partners meeting, each partner with specific things to offer with established communication with each other.
• LCCN outreach projects have expanded to include education for children, water projects, and health initiatives.

In October, Nigeria celebrated its 50th Anniversary of Independence. One slogan we saw on banners proclaimed: “Good People, Great Nation”. I would have to say that the good people here are always working on building and strengthening their great nation.

May God continue to bless Nigeria!

Pastor Judy Burgett Winzig