The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Ogbomoso officially commenced her Annual Ministers’ Conference on Monday, September 8, 2025. The four-day event, running until September 11, drew ministers of the gospel and their spouses from across Nigeria and beyond for a time of spiritual revival, awakening, refreshing, and empowerment for ministry. From the first day, the Alumni Multipurpose Hall, venue of the event, was filled with ministers, their families, and guests, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation, grace, and great expectations.

This year’s theme, “The Gospel Minister and His Relationship,” highlights the importance of cultivating strong and godly relationships as the foundation for effective gospel ministry. The opening session, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. was moderated by Rev. Prof. Olusayo Oladejo, Deputy President, Academics of the Seminary. In his welcome speech, the Seminary President, Rev. Prof. Stephen Oladele Ayankeye, gladly received the presence of the Convention President, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, FAR, alongside other distinguished leaders and delegates.

The Acting Doves (NBTS Drama Group) presented a compelling drama illustrating the significance of relationships in a minister’s life transversing spiritual, family, and congregational relationships. The drama ministration set the tone for sober reflection among participants.

A highlight of the evening was the devotional charge delivered by Rev. Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye, titled “The Gospel Minister and His Relationships.” In his message, he admonished ministers to evaluate their relationships – vertically with God and horizontally with people. He emphasized the centrality of healthy relationships in sustaining ministry, beginning with the minister’s relationship with self, and including relationships with their spouse, children, and church members, extending to coworkers, and further into intrapersonal, interpersonal, national, and international relationships.

Rev. Prof. Ayankeye further stressed the necessity of purity and holiness in maintaining a growing relationship with God and people. He challenged ministers to reconcile every broken relationship, warning that unresolved conflicts could derail people in ministry. The session culminated in a moment of consecration. Responding to the message, many ministers sought reconciliation and renewal. The Convention President, Rev. Dr. Israel A. Akanji, offered a prayer for the congregation, while Rev. Oluwatayomi Abiola led the ministers in a session of intercessory prayers and of committing themselves afresh to God’s service.

The evening closed with a session of praise and adoration, as the Seminary President invited the choir to lead in vibrant songs of thanksgiving and praise. The atmosphere was electrifying as seminary leaders, the Convention President, ministers, and their spouses joined in joyful praise before the Lord. Day One concluded on a high note, leaving participants expectant for the next session. Truly, it was a day of grace, revival, and a powerful reminder that ministry thrives on godly relationships.

Report by

Oluwatobi Blessing Gabriel, BRE IV

for NBTS Advancement Centre