Before NBTS products are declared successful in character, academics and ministerial skills, they would have undergone various experiences culminating in spiritual vibrancy, academic soundness and ministerial competence. Annually, the graduation events begin with the Commencement service (formerly called Baccalaureate service) which is both the commencement of graduation events and the special ‘commissioning service for graduates as they prepare to make full proof of their ministry in the wide field of the world.

May 31 2026 marked the beginning of events individuals had looked forward to for a range of one to six years – depending on the programme they underwent in NBTS and their ability to complete all requirements. The 2026 Commencement service held in the Multipurpose hall at 5pm prompt. Officiating ministers and a large number of the graduating class were in their academic robes, ready to start on the dot of 5pm. As usual, the Faculty of Church Music provided beautiful instrumental music at the beginning of the programme as the orchestral rendition of ‘Hymns to Joy’ served as processional music.

The NBTS President, Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye presided over the occasion, and the guest minister was Rev. Dr Femi Taiwo Ojo, Pastor of  Union Baptist Church, Ogbomoso. The latter was introduced by the Seminary Registrar, Rev. Olusegun Okunlola. Taking his text from Luke 4:25 – 26; Rev. Dr Femi Taiwo Ojo spoke on God’s call which can demands special rearrangement,  is more important than certificates and is meant for a specific assignment at a specific time just as it was for Elijah and Elisha. Dr Ojo called attention of participants and graduates that when God calls for a specific assignment, it usually interrupts and overrides other assignments. He led the congregation to learn from Elijah’s call that: the assignment of God precedes the individual’s calling; that God does not call the qualified and that the assignment of God calls for standing for the truth.

Among other details, Dr Ojo stated implications for graduates and the congregation to understand their assignment lest they mess up their calling. He challenged all to ensure they do what God instructs per time and place because each local congregation is culturally unique. He charged the graduates and other ministers to be fearless and not walk alone, lest they die alone . He encouraged all to not ‘uncall’ themselves but to be resilient because ‘IF YOU ARE NOT DEAD, YOU ARE NOT DONE,’ he stated.  Dr Ojo ended on the note of warning that none should feel they are indispensable because God has His own reserves. Thus, all ministers must remember that their divine assignment demands consistent alignment with God.

The Deputy President Academics, Prof. Olusayo B. Oladejo, led the prayer of commitment for the graduates. Rev. Dr Damaris Aremu was the Song Leader while  Rev. Joel Dare was the pianist for the occasion. Other officiating ministers for the occasion were: Rev. Dr Stephen O. Oyelowo (one of the Chaplains),  Rev. Dr Olaide O. Ajeigbe (Chaplain), Rev. Dr Ruth M. Oyeniyi (Dean, Faculty of Education) and Rev. Prof. Olusola Ayo-Obiremi (Deputy President Advancement). Rev. Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye, the President led in the closing prayer after which all present were encouraged to depart to do God’s bidding as the officiating ministers recessed to the orchestra playing ‘He leadeth me’.

Olusola Ayo-Obiremi,

DP Advancement

for NBTS Advancement Centre