The EYN Pension Unit, headed by Mr. Ania Simon, who reaffirmed his strong commitment to the growth and development of the Unit, has facilitated a pre-retirement workshop organized by the EYN- Church of the Brethren in Nigeria for intending retirees between 2026 and 2028. The workshop, held at the EYN Headquarters Banquet Hall, Kwarhi, from January 12 to 16, 2026, is designed to prepare participants and their spouses for a self-reliant, productive, and purposeful life after service.
Declaring the workshop open, the EYN Vice President welcomed all intending retirees and their spouses on behalf of the EYN President, Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, and encouraged participants to view retirement as a new phase of service, responsibility, and purposeful living. He urged them to embrace humility in their relationships and engagements, noting that retirement does not diminish one’s value, relevance, or calling.
Drawing from Matthew 5:1–11, the Vice President admonished participants to uphold the virtues of humility and peace, reminding them that “the humble will be exalted by God.” He emphasized that retirees—particularly pastors—must continue to serve as role models and ambassadors of peace wherever they find themselves. Quoting scripture, he stated that “blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God,” and encouraged participants to live at peace with everyone, stressing the uncertainty of life and the importance of leaving a positive legacy.
He further advised participants not to rely solely on EYN salaries or retirement benefits but to engage in meaningful ventures that would sustain them financially and mentally after retirement. According to him, acquiring practical skills and remaining productive would help retirees stay active, fulfilled, and independent. He concluded by wishing all participants a successful and impactful workshop.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the EYN Pension Board, Mr. Sunday Dishon Shallhudiki, warmly received the intending retirees and their spouses, greeting them in the name of Jesus Christ. He quoted Proverbs 1:5, which says, “A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,” stressing that preparation and learning are lifelong responsibilities.
Speaking on the workshop theme, “Good Preparation for Self-Reliance after Retirement,” Mr. Shallhudiki described it as a divine reminder that every season of life must be planned with wisdom and lived with purpose. He expressed deep appreciation to the EYN President, Rev. Dr. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, for his fatherly leadership, timely interventions, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of EYN staff, particularly retirees.
He observed that many people approach retirement unprepared—often living in rented houses, depending heavily on relatives, or struggling to meet basic needs. He explained that the workshop was deliberately designed to prevent such outcomes by equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed for a stable and dignified post-retirement life.
Quoting Proverbs 21:5, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,” Mr. Shallhudiki urged participants to cultivate disciplined saving habits, prioritize their health, invest wisely, and foster peace within their families. He noted that financial stability, good health, and harmonious family relationships are critical pillars for a successful retirement.
He also explained that spouses were invited to the workshop to enable couples to learn together, plan together, and walk in agreement, emphasizing that retirement planning is most effective when approached as a shared responsibility.
The workshop continues with a series of lectures and interactive sessions focused on financial management, health awareness, skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and family life, all aimed at empowering participants to live self-reliant, fulfilled, and peaceful lives after retirement.
