EYN Leaders Deliver Messages of Hope, Faith, and Unity
The Christian community in Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State gathered in deep reflection and solemnity on Saturday, 22nd November 2025, as Late Mama Shatu Yakubu Gashau was laid to rest. The funeral service, held at EYN LCC Ghuma, drew family members, church leaders, friends, and sympathizers from various parts of the state who came to honor a woman celebrated for her humility, devotion, and strong Christian values.
Life and Legacy of Mama Shatu
Born in 1959 to the family of Mal. Dika Pwasira and Malama Habiba Kutanga Kwatamdiya in Pwasira Village, Hawul LGA, Mama Shatu lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love for others. She passed away on 19th November 2025, leaving behind 10 children and 17 grandchildren, all of whom testified to her role as a mother, mentor, and spiritual guide.
Her home was known as a place of peace and encouragement, where relatives and neighbors frequently sought counsel. Many described her as a woman of steadfast prayer and unwavering trust in God, even in challenging times.
A Message of Comfort from the EYN President
The funeral was graced by the President of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN), Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, who delivered a deeply comforting and thoughtful message to the congregation.
He emphasized the universal mystery of death, stating that although death is inevitable, “no one is familiar with death.” He reassured believers that for those who are in Christ, death is not the end but a passage into eternal fellowship with God.
Rev. Mbaya urged the children of the deceased to remain united and to stand closely with their father, Rev. Yakubu Gashau, during this period of grief. He called on them to draw strength from one another and from their Christian faith.
A Call to Love, Unity, and Prayer
In his address, the EYN President also called upon the entire church family to remain steadfast in love and mutual support. He encouraged believers to continually pray for one another and to intercede for Nigeria, seeking God’s will and divine protection over the nation.
He concluded by admonishing the congregation to uphold truth at all times, reminding them that genuine Christianity is reflected in one’s character and commitment to righteousness. He sealed his message with words of blessing spoken over the entire assembly.
Sermon from the EYN General Secretary
The sermon for the day was delivered by the EYN General Secretary, Rev. James K. Musa, who preached from Ecclesiastes 1:1–18, a scripture that highlights the emptiness of worldly pursuits.
Rev. Musa underscored that earthly possessions, achievements, and status are temporary and ultimately insignificant when compared with eternal life.
“These worldly materials are nothing,” he emphasized, reminding the congregation that even Solomon renowned for his wealth, wisdom, and influence declared the world to be vanity.
He challenged worshippers to reflect on the true purpose of life, urging them to live in accordance with God’s will and to prioritize spiritual values over material gain.
“If Solomon with all his riches and glory said this world is vanity, then what do we have that we can truly rely on?” he asked.
A Farewell Rooted in Faith
Throughout the service, tributes poured in, celebrating Mama Shatu’s kindness, hospitality, and devotion to her family and church. Her passing leaves a significant void, but her life remains a testimony of faith and resilience.
May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
