DCC Jimeta Becomes Champions of Maiden Volleyball EYN Inter- DCC Championship
It was a weekend of history, excitement, and inspiration at Kwarhi, the headquarters of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN), as the church successfully hosted the maiden edition of its Inter-District Church Council (DCC) Volleyball Championship. The event marked the first time a faith-based organization in Nigeria has organized a sports tournament at a national level—a milestone that positioned EYN as a pioneer in blending faith, sports, and youth development.
The championship, which lasted for one week, brought together 12 District Church Councils (DCCs) from across the country. Over the course of 30 matches, teams competed fiercely in a tournament conducted according to national standards, with officials from the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) ensuring the highest level of professionalism.
The atmosphere was electric at the EYN Headquarters, with cheers, applause, and songs of unity filling the air as young men and women displayed exceptional talent, discipline, and teamwork. For many, it was not just about the games but about what the championship represented—a movement toward peace, unity, and evangelism.
Sports as Evangelism
In his keynote remarks during the finals, the President of EYN, Rev. Dr. Daniel Mbaya, captured the vision behind the tournament. He described the initiative as a divine strategy to reach young people while also promoting unity in a nation grappling with restlessness among its youth.
“This maiden edition marks a new chapter in the history of the church and the nation,” Mbaya declared. “EYN is proud to be the first faith-based organization in Nigeria to engage in sports at the national level, using this platform to unite our youths, discover talents, and promote evangelism. We believe sports is not just about competition—it is about peace, teamwork, and a future filled with hope.”
His words resonated with the audience, especially as the championship had revealed hidden talents among the youths, who were brought together under one common umbrella regardless of their backgrounds.
National Recognition and Applause
The bold step by EYN did not go unnoticed. The National President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, represented by Ishaya Wudri, praised the church’s leadership for its foresight. He described the tournament as an innovation that other faith-based organizations and community bodies should emulate in fostering peace and unity.
Former federal lawmaker, Senator Elisha Ishaku Abbo, also lent his voice, congratulating EYN for its visionary leadership. “The church has once again proven that it is not only concerned about the spiritual growth of its members but also their holistic development,” Abbo said. “I call on other churches and religious bodies to join in promoting sports as a tool for national unity.”
The Mother of the Day, Mrs. Asta Paul Tahal, Gimbiyan Garkida, expressed her joy at serving in such an important role. “It is an honor to serve as the mother of this Occasion, given the importance of this event in the life of the church,” she said. She further expressed gratitude to God, adding, “He always loves me more than everyone else because He continues to give me the opportunity to do His work all the time.” Her remarks drew warm applause from the crowd, underscoring the spiritual significance attached to the event.
Faith, Unity, and Sports
The event was further graced by dignitaries including the EYN General Secretary, Rev. James Musa, who expressed deep satisfaction with the success of the maiden edition. The Vice President of the church, Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, reminded the players that while sports is essential, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead their lives remains the ultimate goal.
In his royal message, Mbege Ka Michika, Professor Bulus Gadiga, who served as the Royal Father of the Day, commended the initiative, calling the championship a symbol of love and unity for the church and the nation.
Winners and Champions
The finals witnessed thrilling displays of skill and determination. Jimeta DCC emerged as champions, clinching the gold medal, after defeating Maiduguri DCC, which proudly went home with the silver medal, while Yola DCC secured the bronze medal after a spirited contest.
Individual brilliance was also recognized:
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Haruna Bulus – Best Setter
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Victor Yusuf – Best Server and Best Spiker
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Ediface Yusuf – Best Blocker
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Balasimi Nyadar – Most Valuable Player
Matches were officiated by experienced referees from the NVBF, including Mohammed Mohammad, Anthonia Yohana, Emmanuel Zamani, Vero Everest, and Kingdiyom Krenews.
Beyond the Court
More than the games, the championship was a celebration of what sports can achieve when rooted in vision and faith. The event brought together church leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, women leaders, and hundreds of youths in a colorful atmosphere of peace and fellowship. Trophies, medals, and awards were presented not just as prizes, but as symbols of commitment, perseverance, and hope.
As the sun set on Kwarhi at the end of the week-long event, it was clear that the EYN Inter-DCC Volleyball Championship had done more than crown winners. It had set a new standard for how the church can engage its youths, promote evangelism, and contribute to nation-building through innovative platforms.
The story of EYN’s maiden volleyball championship is not just about a game. It is about faith meeting sports, unity triumphing over division, and a church daring to dream beyond its walls.
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