Solar lamps ease work of clergy, students in Nigeria

The four conferences of the Nigeria Episcopal Area received hundreds of solar systems in February to be installed in United Methodist churches, homes and schools.

The solar products were provided by the United Methodist German Mission Board, which has a partnership with the episcopal area.

“Almost 90% of the Nigeria population is facing power challenges, and these solar lanterns will help clergy in terms of devotion, Bible studies and other church activities,” said Nigeria Area Bishop John Wesley Yohanna.

   

The solar systems donated by the United Methodist German Mission Board include Fosera lamps, which use LED technology to provide bright light. Photo by Daniel Garba, UM News.

He said the cost of the donated solar systems was $68,000 Euro (about $77,000 USD). The donation included solar-powered ceiling lights and portable torches.

The Rev. Danburam Danladi, conference administrative assistant to the bishop, said the solar lights will make the work of church leaders easier.

“We pastors are facing serious challenges of power in most parts of our annual conference. This light will ease our work as clergy and evangelists in the vineyard of God. … I pray that all the beneficiaries will make good use of the solar lanterns for the work of God,” he said. 

The director of discipleship for the North East Nigeria Conference, the Rev. Titus M. Ibrahim, said the solar power will help with evangelism efforts.

“As the church lives what it preaches, unbelievers will receive salvation easily. The solar system is one of the means to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ practically,” he said.

The Rev. Kawu D. Marcus, principal of United Methodist Ethel Johnson Comprehensive Secondary School, praised the German Mission Board, noting the impact the donations will have.

“You are really the light of the world,” she said. “Your giant stride is impacting lives in mission fields and church schools.”

The solar lamps will have a positive impact on students, especially allowing them to study at night, said Bright Wilfred, head boy at Ethel Johnson.

Student Monday Thompson agreed. She said the solar panels will help her grow in her faith.

“The power supply will in many ways help in my daily study of the word of God, especially in my closet in the night. It has also eased the burden of spending, especially in the entire family, when it comes to the issue of light,” she said.

“This donation has brought changes in all ramifications of life.”