01/05/2026
Former ECWA Women Fellowship Leader Mama Deborah Bonat Buried in Her Hometown, Samaru Kataf
Mama Deborah Bonat, former national leader of the ECWA Women Fellowship International, has been laid to rest in her hometown of Samaru Kataf, Zangon Kataf LGA of Kaduna State.
She was one of three persons who died in a motor accident in Gombe State while returning from a saturation outreach mission in Taraba State.
The funeral service was held at the Roundabout football field in Samaru Kataf and drew a capacity crowd.
Rev. Reuben Yaro, Director of the ECWA Christian Education Department, described Mama Bonat as "a beacon of faith" whose leadership made the Women Fellowship flourish. He noted that even in her final moments, she was sharing the Gospel on the road, adding: "Her homegoing was no accident in God's sovereign plan; it was a triumphant entry into glory." (Psalm 116:15)
Rev. Sunday Congo, preaching from Hebrews 9:27, reminded the gathering that death is inevitable, stating: "Our mother was caught up while preaching the gospel. Where will death catch up with you?" He urged everyone to live at peace with their families and remain ready for Christ.
Rev. Mac Philips, EMS Director, mourned her dedication to reaching the unreached, noting that she had initially planned to go to Jigawa but instead chose Taraba, "where the Lord decided to take her to Himself." He called for someone to fill the gap left by her death.
Rev. Dr. Sunday Ajise, ECWA Vice President, brought greetings from the ECWA Executive and prayed for God's comfort for the bereaved family.
Mama Deborah Bonat died while engaged in evangelism, embodying ECWA's 2025 theme of being "dressed ready for service for Christ."
The burial ceremony brought together present and past ECWA leadership, trustees, captains of industry, traditional rulers, church denomination leaders, families, and sympathizers from within and outside Nigeria, who offered glowing tributes. Her body was finally interred in the family compound.
Danjuma Dickson Auta
Ag. PRO, PR Office
