Rekindling Historic Partnership Through Dialogue, Mutual Exchange, and Gift Presentation
The National Standing Committee and a Delegation from the Church of the Brethren (COB), USA, including Rev. David Steele, General Secretary and Rev. Sharon Norton, Executive Director Global Mission, held a strategic indoor meeting in to strengthen their decades-long partnership. The engagement focused not only on sustaining institutional collaboration but also on addressing one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges facing the church the reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees into their home communities.
As the founding partner of EYN, the Church of the Brethren, USA, has stood as a pillar of support through the years of crisis and displacement. In this meeting, both sides demonstrated renewed commitment to shared mission and service, exploring sustainable pathways for joint action and rekindle partnership.
A central focus of the discussion was the future of over 18,000 Nigerian refugees currently living in the Minawao Camp in Cameroon, many of whom have been displaced for more than a decade. The meeting had a thoughtful and strategic dialogue on how to responsibly reintegrate these long-term refugees and internally displaced persons back into their communities with adequate support systems.
Additionally, the partners examined the revival of Work Camps, a program once used to foster cross-cultural fellowship and community development. Reviving this initiative is seen as vital to promoting youth engagement, fellowship and practical mission service.
They also discussed plans for a Staff Exchange Program, aimed at building mutual capacity and deepening cooperation between the two churches across national and cultural boundaries.
During a special session with the EYN National Standing Committee, each director presented a detailed account of their department’s work, ongoing projects, and challenges. This transparency offered COB’s delegation insight into the operational landscape of EYN and areas for deeper collaboration.
In a spirit of appreciation and unity, EYN President Rev. Daniel Y.C. Mbaya, PhD., presented a gift to the American delegation in recognition of their enduring friendship and solidarity. The COB representatives, in turn, honored Rev. Mbaya, the Vice President Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, and the General Secretary Rev. James K. Musa with symbolic gifts, affirming their ongoing commitment to walk together in faith and mission.
Great is God faithfulness
Congratulations!! EYN and CoB. Continue the cooperation of faith, ministry and mission to the glory of God and blessings to His church in both nations.
I pray that the love and respect between the brethren continue to grow stronger and wider please. Peace!