The President of the EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, has officially declared EYN LCB NTA Quarters, under LCC Moduganari, DCC Maisandari, in Maiduguri, Borno State, as a fully autonomous Local Church Council (LCC), describing the milestone as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the resilience of the congregation.
Congratulating the congregation, Rev. Dr. Mbaya said the attainment of Local Church Council status was the reward for years of faith, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.
“Today is not merely the declaration of a Local Church Council; it is a testimony of God’s faithfulness. Your perseverance, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment have brought you to this significant milestone,” the President said.
Reflecting on the history of the church, he noted that the congregation was built through sacrifice and resilience, recalling the tragic loss of a young boy during the church’s construction, an incident that remains part of its history.
“This church was established through sacrifice and perseverance. Despite moments of pain and loss, you remained faithful. Let this achievement inspire you to continue serving God with unity and dedication,” he said.
The EYN President urged members to remain united, live peacefully with one another, and remain committed to the Gospel despite persecution and hardship.
“Remain united, continue to love one another, and never allow persecution or challenges to weaken your faith. Let this church remain a beacon of hope and the light of Christ in Maiduguri,” he charged.
Delivering the sermon, the EYN General Secretary, Rev. James K. Musa, preached from Ephesians 4:3–7 on the theme, “Let Us Maintain the Unity of the Faith.” He reminded believers that the Church is one body united by one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God, urging Christians to reject gossip, tribalism, hatred, and bitterness.
Following the reading of the church’s history, Rev. Dr. Mbaya formally pronounced the congregation as EYN LCC NTA Quarters. Members took an oath of commitment, prayers were offered for the church leadership, and the Certificate of Autonomy was presented to the Resident Pastor.
The historic autonomy service, which commenced at 9:04 a.m., attracted church leaders, ministers, delegates from various District Church Councils (DCCs), members of sister churches, invited guests, and worshippers from within and outside Borno State. The service was moderated by the DCC Secreatary of Maisandari, Rev. Julius Kaku.
The ceremony featured congregational hymn singing, special ministrations by the DCC Sisters Fellowship and DCC Choir, prayers, thanksgiving, and the formal declaration of autonomy.
President Visits Bele Kura Congregation
As part of his pastoral engagements in Maiduguri, Rev. Dr. Mbaya, accompanied by the EYN General Secretary, Rev. James K. Musa, and the DCC Secretary, also visited EYN LCB Bele Kura, located behind Giwa Barracks under EYN Polo, following a recent security incident in which the church’s perimeter fence was demolished and a security guard was stabbed.
The delegation inspected the affected church premises, prayed with the congregation, and encouraged members to remain steadfast despite the attack.
“Do not be discouraged by these challenges. Continue to trust in God, remain steadfast in your faith, and keep praying. The Lord who has sustained His Church will continue to protect and strengthen His people”
He assured members that the EYN leadership stands in solidarity with them and will continue to pray for and support churches affected by insecurity.
The President’s visit to Bele Kura underscored EYN’s commitment not only to church growth through the establishment of new Local Church Councils but also to providing pastoral care and encouragement to congregations facing difficult circumstances.
The declaration of EYN LCC NTA Quarters and the pastoral visit to EYN LCB Bele Kura highlighted the Church’s dual commitment to strengthening its ministry and standing with believers affected by insecurity in Borno State.
More grace Mr President and GS, you truly demonstrated a dynamic leadership, may the Lord Almighty keep you sounds and healthy for His purpose.