Prelate Emeritus Sunday Mbang, a renowned figure in the Christian community, has passed away at the age of 86.
Mbang, who held prestigious positions such as the president of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the first black president of the World Methodist Council, left a lasting legacy through his pioneering and path-finding spirit within Nigerian Methodism.
The sad news of Mbang’s demise was shared in a heartfelt letter addressed to church leaders by Babatunde Taiwo, the secretary of the Methodist church.
The entire church, as well as the people of Akwa Ibom, Mbang’s home state, were offered condolences for their loss.
Recognizing Mbang’s significant contributions, the church described him as a remarkable individual who epitomized the values of Nigerian Methodism.
His devotion to the Methodist Church spanned over two decades, during which he provided spiritual, intellectual, and servant leadership.
Mbang’s passing undoubtedly leaves a void that will be sorely felt by his beloved church, the Methodist Church, as well as the wider Christian community in Nigeria and abroad.
Born on August 26, 1936, in Idua Eket, Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, Mbang’s journey towards becoming a respected clergyman started with his education.
He attended the Effoi group school and later pursued his studies at renowned institutions such as the University of Ibadan, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel, and Harvard University in the United States.
After completing his theological education and training both in Nigeria and overseas, Mbang was ordained as a minister in 1961.