Late Rev. David Malafa: An Exemplanery Leader
The leadership and members of EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria have continued to mourn the passing of Late Rev. David Malafa, whose final burial service was held on Wednesday, 13th May 2026, at EYN LCC Gombi No. 2, under EYN DCC Gombi in Gombi.
The final interment of Late Rev. David Malafa was not only a solemn farewell but also a profound tribute to one of EYN’s most respected former leaders—a peaceful church statesman whose wisdom, humility, and servant leadership shaped a defining chapter in the history of the church.
The burial ceremony attracted a large gathering of sympathisers from all walks of life, including church leaders, pastors, members, traditional rulers, politicians, friends, and family members, all united in honouring a man remembered as a devoted servant of God, experienced administrator, and legacy builder.
Leading the EYN delegation was the President of EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, accompanied by senior church officials and members of his entourage. Their arrival was met with warm reception and visible emotion from mourners gathered to pay their last respects.
Late Rev. David Malafa: A Life of Service and Commitment
According to the biography presented during the service, Late Rev. David Malafa was born on 11th September 1950 in Garfite, Gombi. He attended Lubu Hona and Dzangola Primary Schools between 1958 and 1966 before proceeding to Teachers’ College Waka Biu from 1968 to 1972.
He married Mrs Magdaline Ardo on 9th March 1974, and their union was blessed with children and grandchildren.
Driven by his passion for ministry and Christian service, he later enrolled at the Theological College of Northern Nigeria (TCNN), Bukuru, where he obtained a Diploma in Theology between 1980 and 1983. He was ordained as a full minister of God on 10th November 1985.
Before entering full pastoral ministry, he served as a teacher at several institutions, including Lubu Primary School, Kiri Primary School, Hushipra Primary School, and Balwhona Primary School. He also served at KBC Kwarhi as both teacher and Vice Principal, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to education and leadership development.
A Defining Legacy in EYN Leadership
The ministry of Late Rev. David Malafa was marked by faithful service across several EYN congregations, including EYN Lassa, EYN Mubi, EYN Gombi I, EYN Jimeta, and EYN Garkida.
Beyond pastoral ministry, he held numerous strategic leadership positions, including DCC Secretary Yola, DCC Secretary Gombi, RCC Chairman Garkida, CAN Chairman Gombi Local Government Area, DCC Yola Vice Chairman, and DCC Vice Chairman Garkida.
Most significantly, Late Rev. David Malafa served as EYN Chairman from 1991 to 1995, a period remembered as one of institutional transition and historical significance.
During his tenure, the title of the church’s head officially changed from “Chairman” to “President”, making him the last EYN Chairman and the leader who oversaw the transition to the current presidential leadership structure.
This pivotal development remains one of the defining markers of his legacy and a testament to his calm and principled leadership during a sensitive period in the life of the church.
He was also privileged to visit several countries during his lifetime, including the United States, United Kingdom, Israel, and Egypt.
EYN President Pays Tribute to Late Rev. David Malafa
In his condolence message, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya quoted Scripture to remind the congregation of the uncertainty of life, comparing human existence to fish suddenly caught in a net and birds unexpectedly trapped.
Dr Mbaya described Late Rev. David Malafa as a man of uncommon wisdom, kindness, humility, and love whose lifestyle remains worthy of emulation.
He noted that the late church leader guided EYN through difficult moments, particularly during the transition from “Chairman” to “President,” with remarkable calmness and discipline.
According to Dr Mbaya, one of the most admirable qualities of Late Rev. David Malafa was his maturity in handling church matters, noting that he never involved himself in unnecessary controversies but remained focused on issues that promoted peace and unity.
He urged younger church leaders and ministers to learn from the exemplary life and leadership style of the deceased.
Sermon and Final Interment
Earlier in the service, former EYN Vice President, Rev. Mbode Ndirmbita, delivered a sermon titled “What About You?” based on Psalm 116:15, challenging Christians to live lives pleasing to God and remain mindful of eternity.
Prayers for the immediate family were later offered by the EYN Vice President, Rev. Nuhu M. Abba.
Following the conclusion of the church service, the remains of Late Rev. David Malafa were laid to rest during a final interment officiated by the EYN President.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Though the church mourns the loss of Late Rev. David Malafa, his life remains a source of inspiration to generations of EYN members and leaders.
His enduring legacy of humility, peace, discipline, and visionary leadership will continue to shape the future of EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria.
As tributes continue to pour in, many agree that Late Rev. David Malafa was more than a former chairman—he was a faithful shepherd, a wise administrator, and a bridge-builder whose impact will never be forgotten.
For more stories about EYN and CoB click the link below
