In a decisive step to support education in conflict-affected regions of Madagali, Lassa, Dille, Gulak, Kwarhi, Chibok, Chibok-Balgi, Rumirgo and other, the EYN DDRM (Directorate of Disaster and Relief Management), provided financial assistance to student to leverage the on-going economic hardship and challenges faced by most affected regions in the area.
The scholarship presentations were carried out by the Deputy Director of DRM, Rev. Barka Dali, who stood in for the DRM Director, Rev. Bitrus Y. Duwara, who was unavoidably absent. Also representing the DRM at the event was Mrs. Rhoda Isa, Coordinator of the Directorate, who has been instrumental in mobilizing and executing relief interventions across vulnerable communities.
The initiative, though humanitarian in nature, also stands as a defining role in the administration of the EYN President, Rev. Daniel Y.C. Mbaya, PhD. Though he was not physically present, the scholarship rollout is a clear reflection of his commitment to youth development and long-term societal transformation through education. Under his leadership, EYN continues to evolve as not only a spiritual anchor but also a proactive humanitarian force.
Addressing the students during the event, Rev. Dali encouraged them to use the scholarship funds judiciously. “This is a seed planted with love and prayer. We believe it will bear fruit in your lives, in your families, and in the nation,” he said. He also commended the leadership of the Church for prioritizing educational support in regions where access to basic education remains a daily struggle due to insurgency and displacement.
Mrs. Rhoda Isa who spoke with EYN News explained said that “This is more than just financial aid—it’s a message of hope,” noting that the scholarships cover tuition and essential school materials for students who might otherwise have dropped out due to hardship. “These children carry not just schoolbags, but dreams and potential that must not be wasted.” She added.
The beneficiaries include students from both EYN-affiliated and public secondary schools. One of the recipients, who requested anonymity, expressed deep emotion: “I am grateful to God and the leadership for counting me worthy to receive this scholarship. The hope for my academic journey has been rekindled. Now I truly believe—with God, all things are possible,” the student said tearfully.
While President Mbaya could not attend, his vision was unmistakably present. Speaking at a prior engagement, he remarked, “As a church, we are called to shine the light of Christ through love and service. There is no greater service than empowering our children with knowledge—especially those who otherwise would have been left behind.”
The scholarship initiative is the latest in a series of impactful efforts by the EYN Directorate of Disaster and Relief Management, which has remained at the forefront of the Church’s response to humanitarian needs—offering food, shelter, and now educational support. It exemplifies how faith-driven leadership can extend beyond the pulpit to meet people at their point of need.
As the scholarships were received with gratitude and tears of joy, the moment reaffirmed the power of compassionate leadership to illuminate paths and unlock destinies—even in the darkest of times.
