Mama Deborah
Iya Bonat

Eghosa Solomon efionayi

Sai godiya” — those were your words, mummy. Even in the grave, I still love and cherish you deeply. You were more than a mother to me. The way we met and journeyed together until your passing still feels like a shock. Yet, I find comfort in knowing that you are resting with the Lord. I miss you, and I will always miss you. Continue to rest in perfect peace until we meet again, to part no more. I pray that the family you left behind will continually experience God’s grace, mercy, and favour, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Your son, Eghosa

Rebecca James Boman

Nma Kasang!, From the very day our Mother passed on (33 years ago), you faithfully took the place of being my mother to your very last breath. Kaiiiiiii! Though you are out of sight, but the SEED of RIGHTEOUSNESS you've sown in me will continue bearing much fruits by the Grace of God, for that has been your heart beat. My consolation is that, we shall definitely live together again. Keep resting from all this earthly toils until we reunite on the resurrection morning. Ku swan Ania ' Rebecca James Boman, Younger Sister.

Mrs Amina J. Musa Menson

A Tribute to Our Dear Mother in the Lord Today, I remember with gratitude and reverence a woman of faith, a widow for 30 years, who walked faithfully with the Lord and served Him to the very end. She was more than a mother to many of us. She was a vessel of love, a pillar of strength, and a tireless laborer in the vineyard of the Lord. Her last journey from Taraba to Kaduna was a missionary assignment, a testimony to her commitment to the gospel. Though the accident along the Gombe axis took her from us physically, it did not take away the legacy she has left behind. She finished her race with grace, and we believe she has heard the Master say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” For three decades as a widow, she demonstrated what it means to trust God in every season. She did not allow sorrow to silence her praise or difficulty to dim her light. Instead, she became a living example of resilience, prayer, and selfless service.

Jemimah Gyarazama

Let’s talk about how even the strongest, most beautiful things can come undone in a moment. ‎On March 23rd, 2026, a light went out. Deborah Bonat took her final breath. You left this world the same way you lived: bold, loud, and full of life. A true mother, you raised your five daughters and two sons with a strength that felt almost superhuman. ‎I knew you for 21 years, not just as Swanta’s mum, but as someone who made space for me in your heart. You would laugh and call me your “mother-in-law,” always joking about marrying my first son. The last time we spoke, you were playfully threatening to end the “marriage” because he didn’t buy you Christmas clothes… I never thought that kind of laughter would become a memory so soon. ‎Your love for God, those powerful morning devotions, and your hardworking spirit are things I will never forget. In faith and in life you gave your all. ‎Mummy, you are deeply missed. ‎Fly with the angels, ma’am 🫡

Philemon John

As one of her many spiritual children, I will miss her so dearly. I received a lot of encouragement from her as she connected very well to my misfortunes, potentials, dreams and aspirations. I remember very well her last words of encouragement to me about a couple of months ago, "My son, I can see that the Lord is about to do something spectacular in your life." We both had plans already on ground to see to the actualisation of such and I am committed to see them through by God's grace even though I so much believe it would be easier for me to do so if she's alive. This is one of the many reasons I will miss her so dearly! I can't ask for a better spiritual mother. Farewell mum as you journey to your glorious eternal home, till we meet there soon🙏🏼!

Pst. Jacob Habu Japhet

To Mrs. Deborah Bonat (Mama Sai Godiya), my lecturer in Youth and Children Ministry at ECWA Theological Seminary, Kagoro. As I write this, my heart is filled with mixed emotions sadness and gratitude. Sadness because we have lost an icon whose presence will be deeply missed, yet gratitude because her life was truly worth celebrating, a life well lived. Mama was more than a lecturer; she was a blessing, a source of strength, and a light in dark moments. Through her, I learned what true leadership looks like, both in words and in action. What stood out most was her kindness. She gave selflessly, loved unconditionally, and remained steadfast in her faith. She had a rare gift making everyone feel valued, seen, and loved. Though her absence hurts, we are comforted knowing her life was meaningful and impactful. As it is written in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Rest on, Mama.

Pastor. Theophilus Jesse Liman

I can confidently say, there is no single student of ECWA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY KAGORO set 2015 that Mommy Deborah Bonat was not a mother to. She had a genuine relationship and closeness with everyone of us, her concern towards our success was from motherhood bossom. She was cheerful and fun to be with. I am sure the heavens are rejoicing, only waiting to meet with her on the last day. Mama Sai godiya, sai godiya kawai!

Chief Comrade Udeh Adole

I was not opportune to know her in person but I know her daughter Mrs. Patience Buba who I worked with. Her passion for the things of God and humanity clearly reflects the upbringing Mama gave her. At times like this, words hardly convey our pains but having a firm knowledge that Mama is where she loves most is all the consolation we need.

Pastor Ibrahim Samuel

To a loving mother and a kind-hearted woman, thank you for your life of faithful service. On hearing of your passing, I reminisced about our first encounter. I thought of the kindness you showed me in Abuja when I was about to travel to Jos to begin my Master of Arts in Theology (MA) at JETS. If first impressions truly matter, then I can say you were a remarkably generous woman. I am so comforted to know that your gentle soul is now resting with the Lord. 🙏

Zonzon DCC Women's Fellowship

Mama Deborah didn't just lead us; she walked with us. She taught us that a woman's greatest strength is her faith in action. We will continue the work she started in the villages. Rest well, our International Leader.

A Former Student (Kagoro Seminary)

As Dean of Students, she was firm but incredibly fair. When I struggled with my fees, she didn't just counsel me; she found a way to help. She was the definition of a 'Mother in Israel.'

Anonymous

I arrived at her door with nothing but fear after fleeing my home. She gave me a bed, a Bible, and a new hope. Because of her, I am in school today. Her house was truly my first sanctuary.