For the first time, the national leadership of EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria held an interactive workshop with leaders of various church groups at the national level, creating a platform for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration on issues affecting the church.
The one-day workshop, which took place on March 10, 2026, at the EYN Headquarters in Kwarhi, brought together leaders from the three standing committees of the church groups chairmen, treasurers, and secretaries to discuss the role of church groups in strengthening the mission and unity of the church.
During the workshop, participants openly discussed several issues affecting the church and its groups. Some youth representatives raised concerns about the current EYN system, expressing the view that parts of the system appear to be compromised.
While addressing the participants, the EYN President, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, referenced 1 Timothy 4:7–10 and explained that the meeting was initially planned to take place earlier but had to be postponed due to some challenges.
“This meeting was supposed to hold earlier, but because of certain challenges it was postponed. However, it is better late than never,” he said.
Rev. Mbaya reminded the group leaders that their responsibilities go beyond leading their respective groups.
“Although you are leaders of your various church groups, you are also leaders of the church. Anyone who holds a position in the church is a church leader, and in many ways your role is similar to that of pastors,” he stated.
He further encouraged the leaders to cultivate leadership grounded in the Word of God and to demonstrate strong Christian character.
“In the church, a leader’s character must surpass their competence. Leadership must be rooted in the Scriptures, supported by prayer, and strengthened through perseverance,” the President said.
According to him, the purpose of the gathering was to ensure unity and shared understanding among all leaders within the church.
“We want everyone to be on the same page so that no group will feel left out whenever decisions or resolutions are taken at the headquarters,” he explained.
Rev. Mbaya also urged the leaders not to underestimate their positions, noting that many church members look up to them as role models.
Using a biblical example, he reminded the leaders that challenges are part of leadership.
“Even Jesus had twelve disciples, yet one betrayed Him. This tells us that challenges will come, but leaders must remain committed to doing what is right,” he added.
He further called on the leaders to rise above tribalism and promote unity within the church community.
Following the address, participants engaged in an open discussion session with the President, where they presented complaints, suggestions, and words of encouragement to the national leadership.
A participant from the Sisters’ Fellowship suggested that similar workshops should be organized at the DCC level, involving pastors, group leaders, and church committees.
A representative from the Choir recommended that the workshop be held annually to strengthen relationships among the different church groups.
A member of ZME thanked the national leadership for creating the platform and requested that arrangements be made to make it easier for members to obtain their group uniforms, citing ZME and the Sisters’ Fellowship as examples.
The representative of Nazarin Littafi Mai Tsarki da Wakoki suggested adjustments in the mode of worship, emphasizing that LCC pastors should avoid taking over programs initiated from the national level. He also proposed including dedicated sessions for praise and worship, noting the growing interest of members in such activities.
A participant from the Boys’ Brigade raised concerns that some pastors take church properties for granted and stressed the need for stronger relationships between pastors in charge and assistant pastors. He also recommended that when issues arise at the LCC or DCC levels, there should be monitoring and guidance from the GCC.
In response, Rev. Mbaya appreciated the openness of the participants and assured them that the national leadership would carefully review all the issues and suggestions raised during the workshop.
