Ne Dija Talaka was born approximately in June 1925, two and a half years after the gospel reached Tangale land.

She attended the “Balla” school organized by missionaries – that was eventually the only school she attended.

She was baptized in 1944 and, a year after, got married. The marriage did not last long as a result of the sudden demise of her husband in 1948. At that point, she vowed never to marry again as a mark of honor and love for her husband and the wellbeing of her only child.

Her service to humanity began when she became a Sunday School teacher in Lasakel from 1949-56. She also taught in Pokulji Banganje from 1958 – 1960 in Kufai Yelwa from 1961 – 1975, and ECWA Billiri from 1975-78.

Ne Dija, as she was popularly known, was not only an astute teacher of the Bible but also an accomplished Gospel singer. Her footprint in music is evident in the richness of the lyrics of the many Tangale Songs she wrote. She also has an album to her credit.

Ne Dija was credited with starting the Girls Brigade in Tangale land and is referred to by many as the mother of the modern Girls Brigade in Tangale land. She was also among the cast of The Jesus film in the Tangale language and a member of the Committee for the Translation of the Bible into the Tangale language.

One job that brought her unparalleled fame and recognition was midwifery – She was the first midwife in Tangale land. Her career as an accomplished midwife began when she started to work as a dispenser in Banganje from 1958 – 1960.

At the request of Pobe Harlin (the first Missionary in Tangale land), she went to Kufai to start a job as a midwife. From Kufai, she went to Kaltungo for further training in midwifery by the missionaries. She spent just one and a half years on training due to her proficiency.

She returned to Kufai to continue her midwifery job. Her maternity was later moved to Billiri. In those days, she was the only person attending to pregnant women during delivery. She successfully handled complicated cases.

She retired in 1995 after 30 years of service and settled in Kentengereng area of Billiri.

Ne Dija received awards for her meritorious service to God and humanity. She was presented a Long Service Award by ECWA Headquarters in Jos. She was also honored by ECWA Church Kentengereng for distinguishing herself in the service of the Lord.

Ne Dija lived as a widow most of her life.

She died on 22 June 2019.