Day Two of the Minister’s Conference began as early as before 8am on Tuesday morning, September 9, 2025 with attendees exchanging pleasantries before the praise team started the session. After praises, Dr Steve Oyelowo led in opening prayer, after which Rev. Prof. Stephen O. Ayankeye welcomed everyone and emphasized the need to be spiritually alert. As time went on, the Multipurpose hall was full, with participants listening attentively as Rev. Prof. Olusola Ayo- Obiremi presided over the morning session.

The Bible teacher for the Conference, erstwhile Vice President Ministerial of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC), Rev. Dr. Dickson Madoghwe, addressed conferees on the topic “The Gospel Minister and His Relationships”. He explained the need for Christians to pursue peace, making Deborah an example. Upon careful observation of the life of Deborah, he stressed the importance of women’s involvement in ministry and the need to encourage and support them. He also emphasised that a successful ministry requires balanced family relationships, building a strong family alongside ministry, prioritising family as the foundation of success, supporting each other as family members, and communicating openly with family members. The Bible teaching ended with prayer for (troubled) homes.

Following this was a panel discussion on relationships, which was anchored by Dr Kehinde Olusanya. Panelists discussed the expectations and challenges faced by the pastor’s wife, children, and deacons. Key points raised included the need for pastors to actively engage with their families and ensure clear communication and support within their church communities. This session ended with the Convention President, Rev Dr Israel Akanji, admonishing participants to pray fervently and make efforts to have sustainable good relationships.

The Evening Session began by 3:00pm and was presided over by Dr Gabriel Oyeniyi. The prayer session was led by Dr Raphael Oparinde. This was followed by the Promotion period. During the Promotions, the Publications Department Director, Rev. Dr Busoye Adigun announced new hymn production plans, requesting donations to reduce the cost of purchasing the hymnbook when ocmpleted. The Christian Education Department encouraged writers to connect with the Director, Dr FOluke B. Ola, and encouraged pastoral supervision and training for educators. The Global Missions Board Director, Dr Femi Adewumi, reported how the Board had opened nine new mission fields in nine years. He solicited for faithfulness and cooperation in giving.

New Frontiers Television has improved its reach and the Director, Rev. Eben Durodola encouraged pastors to create content to engage those who could not attend church in person. The establishment of the Nigerian Baptist Conference in the UK was announced. Bowen University’s achievements, global recognition and offer of grants for study abroad were highlighted by the team led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jonathan Babalola. The GORAH health scheme was introduced to support the health of pastors. Prof. Ayankeye introduced Rev. Olusegun Okunlola, the Seminary Registrar, who explained the details of the registration fees for the 2025 Ministers’ Conference. He also made other announcements including some matters relating to University of Jos and past graduates’ certificates.

Dcn Abiodun Oloyede, the Vice President Finance of the NBC announced increase in registration for Convention-in-Session but noted that the target was not met yet. Pastors were urged to remain in the pension scheme and request reconciliation before retiring. Churches were encouraged to contribute to the Convention regularly and on time.

During Revival Time, Rev. Bola Adeyemo laid an emphasis on the need to live in peace and break evil connections as necessary for the Minister of God in terms of his relationships. He listed some sources of evil connections which include: family lineage, sexual relationships, syncretism, occultism, evil covenants, and dreams. He further explained that to break these connections, it is important to claim the finished work of Jesus through His suffering, death, and resurrection. Participants were led to engage in deliverance confessions and prayers. An offering for the ongoing project of the Baptist Christian Centre in Abuja was collected and the closing hymn led by Dr Yeside Odiase while Dr Akin Alawode led in the closing prayer  at 6:30 pm. It was indeed a full day of spiritual rejuvenation, denominational education, challenge and revival for participants in the 2025 Ministers’ Conference.

Violet Prescious, PhDRE

for NBTS Advancement Office