Esther Odunlami
Senior Lecturer, Pastoral Care and Counselling
Director of Student Affairs

CONTACT

eodunlami@nbts.edu.ng

EDUCATION

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pastoral Care and Counselling, The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary Ogbomoso
  • Certified Manager, International Professional Managers Association, United Kingdom
  • Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Theology, The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary Ogbomoso
  • Master in Education (M.Ed.) in Guidance and Counselling, University of Ibadan
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Banking and Finance, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye
  • National Registered Nurse, School of Nursing, University College Hospital (SONUCH), Ibadan
  • State Registered Midwife, Lagos State School of Midwifery (SONM), Ikoyi, Lagos

RESEARCH INTEREST

Pastoral Care & Counselling (Major), Christian Ethics and African Traditional Religion (Minors)

Rev. Dr. Esther Viyon Odunlami is a Baptist-ordained pastor and a senior lecturer currently serving as the Director of Student Affairs at the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary in Ogbomoso. She holds a PhD in Pastoral Care and Counselling. Esther is passionate about holistic ministry, which nurtures the whole person while pointing them to Jesus Christ, the Reconciler and true Source of salvation, healing, and hope.

Her primary focus in life and ministry is a full allegiance to Christ and a deep commitment to equipping others for Christian and pastoral vocations. She aims to model faithful, Christ-like living in leadership within God’s kingdom and to raise mature believers who thrive spiritually, emotionally, and relationally, serving with integrity in both the church and society.

With a heart for all people and four decades of combined experience in healthcare, counselling, and pastoral ministry, Esther Odunlami firmly proclaims the redemptive power of Christ. She engages with individuals from various walks of life, offering Christ-centered care for reconciliation, healing, and guidance. As a compassionate disciple and mentor, she is deeply committed to the burden of supporting those in ministry and helping others grow in confidence and assertiveness. Dr Odunlami reflects the heart of Christ by providing counsel, encouragement, and spiritual guidance to pastors and Christian leaders.

Esther Viyon is married to Engr Babatunde A. Odunlami FNSE and is blessed with four biological children, many grandchildren, and numerous mentored and nurtured spiritual children.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Member of Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON)
Member of National Association Of Nigeria Nurses And Midwife (NANNM)
Pastor at Nigeria Baptist Convention (NBC)
Member at International Professional Managers Association (IPMA) UK