The serene community of Hildi, Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State, gathered in solemn reverence on May 12, 2025, to celebrate the life and legacy of one of its beloved sons, Rev. Yahaya Bajuda, who passed away at the age of 76. The funeral service, held at EYN LCC No. 1 Hildi, was a fitting tribute to a man whose life was marked by deep faith, humble service, and an unwavering commitment to God and humanity.
Mourners from across the EYN Territory assembled to pay their final respects, with the service officiated by the EYN General Secretary, Rev. James K. Musa, who welcomed the congregation with words of comfort and reflection. The tone of the ceremony was both respectful and celebratory, as speaker after speaker highlighted the spiritual, pastoral, and community contributions of the late reverend.
“We are gathered to honor a life well-lived in service to the Church and the nation,” Rev. Musa said in his opening remarks.
In a moving address, EYN President, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, reminded attendees of the mysterious nature of death and the importance of living each day in readiness for God’s call.
“Death is a mystery that no man can predict. That is why we must live every day as though it is our last,” he said, urging the family to lean on one another and trust in God’s grace during their time of grief. “May God comfort and strengthen the family of the late Rev. Yahaya Bajuda. May His peace and love surround you, and may the memories of his life and ministry bring you joy and inspiration.”
The President also offered a passionate prayer for peace in Nigeria, invoking God’s presence to heal the land.
Born on July 16, 1948, in Hildi, Rev. Yahaya Bajuda lived a life that bridged both military discipline and spiritual devotion. In 1968, he joined the Nigerian Army and bravely fought in the civil war, later transitioning into a spiritual path that would define the rest of his life.
He married Mrs. Habiba Yahaya Bajuda in 1970, and together they were blessed with nine children and twenty-four grandchildren—a living testimony to a life rooted in love and family.
His formal theological training began in 1982 at the TEE Basic program and continued at Kulp Bible School (KBS), where he completed both Basic Course (1988–1990) and CCM (1994–1996).
His ministry spanned over three decades across several District Church Councils (DCCs), including LCC Gashela Puba, DCC Uba (1990–1993), LCC Burda, DCC Mussa, LCC Tsistili Shuwa, DCC Mbororo, LCC No. 1 Mishara, DCC Uba, and LCC Udah (2001–2004). He also served as DCC Secretary in Kautikari (2005–2009) and Futu (2010–2014), retiring in 2014. Even after retirement, he remained active in community affairs as Chairman of the Retired Army Association, Hildi District.
The funeral service was attended by former EYN leaders, including Rev. Joel S. Billi, Former EYN President; Rev. Jinatu L. Wamdeo, Former General Secretary; and Rev. Anthony A. Ndamsai, Former Vice President. Rev. Billi delivered a stirring reflection, encouraging the deceased’s children to emulate their father’s peaceful nature.
“Let the legacy of your father be a guiding light. Live in peace and harmony and be prepared for God’s call just as he was.” He added.
In a sermon delivered by Rev. Haruna Yaduma, drew from Psalms 90:1-6 and Romans 14:7-12, offering spiritual comfort while emphasizing the brevity of life and the eternal hope found in Christ. His message resonated deeply with the congregation, many of whom were visibly moved.
As mourners gathered at the graveside, there was a quiet dignity in the air. The EYN President and other clergy, including Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, stood with the bereaved family. Mrs. Habiba Yahaya Bajuda, in a solemn act of love and farewell, performed the final rite for her husband.
Rev. Yahaya Bajuda will be remembered not only as a faithful servant of the Church but also as a patriot, a father, and a community leader. His journey from soldier to shepherd encapsulates a life of transformation, service, and divine calling.
As the dust settled on his grave, his legacy lives on in the churches he served, the family he nurtured, and the community he uplifted
