Garkida, Adamawa State – June 7, 2026
The atmosphere in EYN DCC Garkida was filled with joy, thanksgiving, and celebration as two Local Church Branches (LCBs), Kaulewa and Demna, were officially granted full autonomy and elevated to the status of Local Church Councils (LCCs). The historic event, which took place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, marked a significant milestone in the growth and expansion of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) within Garkida District Church Council (DCC).
The autonomy ceremony was held at EYN LCC Garkida No. 1, Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State, and attracted a large gathering of church members, guests, traditional leaders, and well-wishers from neighboring communities and various EYN congregations.
The EYN President, Rev. Daniel Y.C. Mbaya, Ph.D., was ably represented by the EYN Vice President, Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, who arrived at the venue alongside his entourage. Upon arrival, the delegation received a warm and colorful welcome from DCC Garkida officials, church leaders, and members who gathered to witness the historic occasion.
The autonomy program commenced at about 10:00 a.m. with opening prayers and soul-lifting song ministrations presented by various church groups. The worship atmosphere prepared the hearts of participants for the special service that followed.
A powerful sermon was delivered by Rev. John Wada Zambwa, who took his text from Acts 5:27–32. In his message, he emphasized the courage demonstrated by the apostles in proclaiming the Gospel despite persecution and opposition. He reminded Christians that obedience to God remains supreme over human authority and highlighted the central message of Christ’s death, resurrection, and salvation.
Drawing lessons from the scripture, Rev. Zambwa encouraged believers to remain steadfast in their faith and continue witnessing for Christ regardless of challenges. He stressed that the apostles’ unwavering commitment to the Gospel serves as an example for the church today, urging members to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling their Christian responsibilities.
Following the sermon, brief historical accounts of the two LCBs were presented, showcasing their journeys toward attaining autonomy.
According to the presentation, LCB Kaulewa was established on January 11, 2015, under EYN LCC Mbewa in DCC Garkida. The church began with 27 communicant members and steadily grew in membership and spiritual development over the years. After eleven years of existence and meeting the necessary requirements, the congregation attained the status of a full-fledged LCC. Its first leader was Rev. Daniel Dzalva, whose leadership contributed significantly to its growth and development.
Similarly, LCB Demna has a much longer history. The church was founded on May 9, 1956, under EYN LCC Kwajaffa in DCC Kwajaffa before it was later transferred to EYN LCC Garkida No. 2 in DCC Garkida. Founded with 40 members, the church faithfully served God for seventy years before attaining full autonomy as an LCC. The congregation acknowledged the contributions of its pioneer leaders, Rev. Pockta and Mr. Shawulu Gangran, whose dedication laid the foundation for the church’s progress.
The highlight of the occasion was the official autonomy ceremony conducted by Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba. During his address, he conveyed the greetings and goodwill message of the EYN President, Rev. Daniel Y.C. Mbaya, Ph.D., to the congregation and all participants.
Rev. Abba congratulated the members of the newly established LCCs for their perseverance, commitment, and dedication to the work of God. He also appreciated the efforts of church leaders, DCC officials, and members whose sacrifices contributed to the successful growth of the congregations. He encouraged the new LCCs to remain united, faithful, and committed to advancing the Gospel in their communities.
The celebration reached another joyful moment as various groups, churches, and well-wishers presented gifts to the newly established LCCs. The gifts, which included cash donations and other valuable items, were offered as expressions of support and encouragement for the future growth and development of the congregations.
As the event drew to a close, participants expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness in bringing the two churches to the level of autonomy. The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer offered by the EYN Vice President, Rev. Nuhu Mutah Abba, who committed the newly established LCCs into God’s hands for continued growth, unity, and effective ministry.
The emergence of LCC Kaulewa and LCC Demna stands as a remarkable achievement for DCC Garkida and a testimony of the continued growth of EYN in spreading the Gospel and strengthening the church across communities.
