EYN President welcomes 33 Newly Ordained Ministers’ Wives

At the 2025 EYN Ministers’ Wives Conference, the EYN President Rev. Daniel Y.C. Mbaya PhD welcomed 33 newly ordained ministers’ wives to the Ministers Council.  During the ceremony, the President offered valuable advice and encouragement to the clergies’ wives, “As pastors’ wives, it is essential to be good people, God-fearing, and supportive to your husbands in ministry. Your exemplary lives and harmonious relationships with others will be a testament to your faith and a source of strength for your families and congregations.” emphasizing the importance of living exemplary lives and promoting peace with assistants and other subgroups.

The President also launched an environmental initiative, challenging ministers’ wives to plant trees in their respective stations as part of efforts to “re-clothe the earth.” Additionally, he announced plans to establish a Prayer Unit and Sunday School Unit at the EYN Headquarters to provide sound biblical teaching for younger members.

In his remarks, President Mbaya called on ministers’ wives to work harmoniously with subgroups, particularly the leadership of ZME and Sisters Fellowship, given their roles as leaders and advisers. He also appealed to the Nigerian government to provide support to those affected by the 2024 floods in Maiduguri.

The conference, which runs from April 22nd to 25th, brings together wives of both serving and retired ministers for fellowship, spiritual renewal, and mutual encouragement. Citing Isaiah 41:10, the President welcomed the attendees with warmth and reverence, recognizing the unique role they play in the ministry alongside their husbands.

“This is a sacred gathering of anointed women,” he said, “called not just to support but to lead, nurture, and serve in building the Kingdom of God.”

Celebrating Vision and Honouring Legacy

The President reiterated the Church’s vision, first declared during his inaugural address: “A United Living Church, Deeply Rooted in the Word of God, Spiritually, Numerically and Materially Prosperous.” He praised the foresight of church leaders who initiated the Ministers’ Wives Conference and urged participants not to take such fellowship for granted.

Confronting National Challenges

Turning to recent national crises, the President expressed sorrow over the deaths of several pastors’ wives and urged participants to prioritize their health and support widows among them. He acknowledged the harsh realities some widows face, including maltreatment from in-laws, and encouraged them to remain strong in faith.

The President condemned the recent resurgence of Boko Haram attacks in northeast Nigeria, describing the situation as “ethnic cleansing in the name of terrorism.” While commending the resilience of pastors and members in affected communities, he expressed deep concern over the government’s continued inaction.

He also addressed the devastating impact of floods, particularly those linked to the collapse of the Alau Dam. Though no pastors or their wives were lost in the disaster, many lost property and homes. He called on the government to be transparent in handling flood relief funds and to ensure reconstruction efforts are completed.

A Call for Unity, Diligence, and Purpose

In a bold and candid moment, the President challenged pastors’ wives to support their husbands wholeheartedly, especially during transfers, rather than resisting change. He warned against misinterpreting divine direction based on personal comfort and urged them to always remember their calling.

He further encouraged the women to pursue entrepreneurship and learn trades, warning them not to rely solely on their spiritual title.

“Let not the name ‘Maman Mu’ deceive you,” he said. “Use your hands to support your homes and contribute to the ministry.”

He also spoke directly about the home front, calling on ministers’ wives to be attentive and loving to their husbands, stressing that spiritual duties should not come at the expense of family responsibilities.

Strategic Vision for the Future

The President announced a number of upcoming initiatives:

• The establishment of a Prayer and Revival Unit at EYN Headquarters.

• The official approval of a Brethren University by the 78th Majalisa, with a monthly fundraising campaign starting in May 2025, calling on every member to contribute at least N1000.

• A major restructuring of the Children Sunday School Department, inspired by best practices from sister churches.

He also emphasized the Church’s commitment to environmental stewardship, urging every pastor’s home to plant at least one tree annually, using recycled water where possible. He called on members to stop indiscriminate tree felling.

The President urged ministers’ wives to cultivate strong relationships with community and political leaders, so that the gospel can reach every sphere of society.

Final Charge and Blessing

In closing, the President reminded the women of the sacredness of the pulpit, cautioning them to use it to uplift and not to criticize. He encouraged them not to isolate themselves to Zumuntan Mata alone, but to see themselves as mothers to all women in the church, regardless of age or background.

“Those who live in the pains of the past,” he said, “deny themselves the peace of the present and the glory of tomorrow.”

He concluded with a prayer for a fruitful and spirit-filled conference, calling on all attendees to let love overcome hate and to represent the church and Christ with dignity.