Bila, Kwaya Kusar LGA, Borno State | March 28, 2026
The President of EYN- Churhc of the Brethren in Nigeria, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, led with deep solemnity the burial service of the late Rev. Jonathan Milila, one of the victims of the tragic road accident involving delegates traveling to the 2026 EYN General Church Council Synod (Majalisa 2026).
Rev. Jonathan Milila was among those who lost their lives while journeying to attend the Majalisa. The other two victims, Mr. Amos Ishaku and Mr. Amos Bulus both delegates were laid to rest in Nasarawa State.
The burial service for Rev. Milila was held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at EYN LCC Billa under DCC Billa in Kwaya Kusar Local Government Area of Borno State, drawing a large gathering of mourners from within and outside the EYN community.
Until his death, Rev. Milila served as the resident pastor at EYN LCC Auta Balefi in Nasarawa State. He was widely known for his dedication to pastoral ministry, passion for evangelism, and commitment to strengthening the spiritual lives of church members. His death has been described as a significant loss to both his immediate family and the entire EYN Church.
The presence of the EYN National leadership, led by Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, underscored the weight of the moment. The President maintained a composed yet deeply reflective presence, sharing in the grief of the bereaved family and the church at large.
In his remarks, Rev. Mbaya expressed profound sorrow over the incident, describing it as a painful reminder of life’s uncertainty. He extended condolences to the widow and family of the late Rev. Milila, the church in Nasarawa State, the Bila community, and the entire EYN fellowship nationwide.
He particularly highlighted the heavy burden borne by the widow, who had previously lost two sons in a single incident two years ago. He called on the church to respond with compassion, prayers, and practical support.
“The church must stand with this family, not just in words but in action,” he emphasized, urging members to rally around the bereaved during this difficult time.
Rev. Mbaya further called on believers to draw closer to God, noting that the sudden death of Rev. Milila serves as a spiritual wake-up call on the transient nature of life. He urged Christians to live faithfully, remain united, and pursue peace.
Messages during the service focused on hope in Christ, the promise of eternal life, and the assurance of resurrection for believers. Clergy encouraged mourners to find comfort in Scripture despite the pain of loss.
The widow paid her final respects amid an outpouring of tributes describing Rev. Milila as a humble servant of God, a committed shepherd, and a man of integrity whose impact will endure.
Church leaders also used the occasion to call for greater caution on Nigerian roads, urging both authorities and citizens to prioritize safety.
As prayers were offered for the grieving families, Rev. Jonathan Milila was laid to rest according to Christian rites.
The burial stood as a moment of deep reflection, unity, and shared grief within the EYN Church, even as the memory of Rev. Milila and the two delegates continues to inspire faith and dedication among members.
