The 2026 Marathon Bible Reading (MBR) was not only a gathering of children, young people and adults. It was also a beautiful demonstration that the hunger for God’s Word knows no age.

Among the many participants who enthusiastically took part in the MBR, held from 25 to 28 August 2026 across various centres in Nigeria, were elderly men and women, some in their 70s, 80s and even 90s. With remarkable enthusiasm and dedication, they took their places alongside younger participants to read the Scriptures, proving that the Word of God remains relevant and precious at every stage of life.

One of the inspiring participants was Chief/Elder Gabriel ANDE-DZEVER, aged 69, who participated at EYN Shagari Low-Cost Pompomari Auxiliary, Borno State. He was captured reading the Tiv Bible (Ichighan Bibilo) during the Marathon. His participation was a powerful reminder that the Bible in one’s heart language can provide a deeply meaningful connection with God’s Word.

Another remarkable participant was Mr. Daniel Midala, aged 78, who also took part at EYN Shagari Low-Cost Pompomari Auxiliary. Borno State. Undeterred by his age, he enthusiastically read from the Bura Bible, covering Leviticus chapters 5 and 6.

Perhaps even more touching was the sight of a 90-year-old woman, affectionately referred to as Mama, taking part in the MBR. Her presence, alongside many other elderly participants in their 70s, 80s and 90s, became a powerful testimony of commitment to God’s Word.

These elderly participants did not see their age as a limitation. Instead, they demonstrated that the desire to read, hear and engage with Scripture can remain strong throughout one’s lifetime. Their participation also provided a beautiful example for the younger generation, reminding them that Bible engagement is not merely a youthful activity, but a lifelong journey of faith.

The sight of grandparents and elderly men and women reading alongside children and young adults created a remarkable picture of generational fellowship around God’s Word. It showed that the Bible has the unique ability to bring people of different ages and backgrounds together.

For The Bible Society of Nigeria, these moments underscore the importance of making the Scriptures available in languages that people can understand and cherish. Whether read in Tiv, Bura or any of the other languages represented during the Marathon, the Bible continues to speak to people wherever they are and at every stage of their lives.

The participation of these elderly Nigerians is therefore more than a memorable feature of the 2026 MBR. It is a challenge and encouragement to all: there is no age at which we become too old to read God’s Word.

From the youngest child to the 90-year-old Mama, the 2026 MBR brought generations together around one Book, one faith and one enduring message – the Word of God.

Age may advance, but the hunger for God’s Word can remain forever young.