The day began with lively and joyful African praise to God. The morning session included a Bible study on the Conference theme and a talk on ascertaining the call to ministry. In attendance were notable figures such as the President of the Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, Vice President (Ministerial), Rev. Prof. John Enyinnaya, Directors of various Departments from the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Conference Presidents and Chairmen, a past president of NBTS, Principal Officers of the Seminary, and other distinguished guests. All were warmly welcomed by the President of the Seminary, Rev. Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye.
The session continued with prayers led by Rev. Prof. Esther Ayandokun, followed by a Bible reading by Rev. Akusa Gajere, and a hymn led by Rev. Dr. Mary Niyi Ojo. These moments led up to the first Bible study of the conference, delivered by the guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Koeleh Saleh, President of Plateau Baptist Conference. Speaking on the conference theme, The Gospel Minister and His Call from John 15:16, he emphasized that God’s call is a sacred duty entrusted to ministers. One of the key points from his message was the necessity of specific consecration for the call. Using Samson as an example, he emphasised the high stakes of gospel ministry, which has eternal consequences. He further encouraged ministers facing challenges to stay resilient, reminding them that God has good plans for them. Rev. Dr. Saleh also stressed that God sets the terms and conditions of ministry, which are non-negotiable, urging ministers to remain faithful and fruitful in their calling. Afterwards, participants posed various questions, which the speaker addressed, with additional clarifications made by the Convention President.
Following a praise break, a series of short talks took place. Rev. Dr. John A. Aworinde, Rev. Prof. John O. Enyinnaya, and Rev. Dr. Grace Omomola spoke on Ascertaining the Call by divine witness, personal witness, and church witness, respectively. By the end of the talks, it was evident that all three aspects are essential in confirming God’s call on a minister’s life. Questions were again posed, and the speakers addressed them. The session concluded with promotional emphasis and announcements from various arms of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC). The promotions on Tuesday were from the Publications and Christian Education Departments, Baptist Press, Global Missions Board and New Frontiers Television). The closing prayer time was led by Rev. Akinwale Akinsola, followed by announcements and remarks by Prof. Olusola Ayo-Obiremi, who presided over the day’s activities. The attendees then took a short break before reconvening for the evening session.
Debo Odunlami
For NBTS Advancement Centre
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