Following the prelude, Rev. Dr. Olaide Ajeigbe, the Chaplain, led the congregation in the Call to Worship with grace and fervor. The service then moved to a stirring rendition of the hymn of adoration, “O Worship the King” (Baptist Hymnal (BH) number 20, 1956 edition). The hymn was skillfully conducted by Rev. Dr. Olusola Fasipe, one of the Heads of Department from the Faculty of Church Music. The hymn resonated deeply within the hearts of all present, embodying the spirit of worship and dedication that the seminary seeks to instill in her students.
Rev. Dr. Oyeniyi, Deputy President Administration, prayed, invoking the presence and guidance of God Almighty. The President of NBTS, Rev. Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye, then took to the stage to extend a warm welcome to the students, faculty, and distinguished guests. His words carried the weight of history and responsibility, reminding attendees of the noble calling that lays ahead for matriculating students.
The guest speaker, Dn. Prof. Olugbenga Solomon Bello; is a respected academic and a figure of inspiration was introduced by the Registrar of NBTS, Rev. Dr. Dele Oluwole.
Prof. Bello delivered the matriculation address titled, “Seven Powers You Need to Have to Succeed as a Seminary Student.” These seven powers are seven things to note and digest to be outstanding in the divine calling. The address was both profound and practical, highlighting the qualities essential for success in seminary life. The seven powers enumerated and discussed by Prof. Bello are the powers of decision, foresight, motivation, prioritization, concentration, consistency and the power of the Supernatural (God through Christ and the Holy Spirit at work). Prof. Bello imparted timeless wisdom via memorable quotes such as, “If you don’t stand up for something, it is obvious you’ll fall for everything” and “It is what you do with your time and brain that determines what you’ll get in life.” His admonition to “feed your focus, starve your distraction” and the catchy, now-trending phrase “if you want something badly, pursue it madly,” struck a chord with the students, echoing long after the ceremony.
Following the inspiring address, Rev. Dr. Dele Oluwole presented the new students by their respective programmes from diploma in Women’s Ministry to doctor of philosophy (PhD).
The president charged students programme by programme as they were called. He led all freshers in taking the matriculation oath, which included things such as understanding the nature of NBTS community, keeping the institution’s rules and regulations; a charge to grow in God’s grace, to live in integrity in the divine calling and prayers for success to achieve the oath.
Each fresh student, brimming with hope and determination, stood as a testament to the diverse and vibrant future of NBTS. It was a moment of deep significance as matriculants took the oath and signed; symbolizing their formal entry into the Seminary and their commitment.
The spiritual tone of the event was further amplified by the singing of the ‘Student’s Prayer’ hymn, led by Rev. Dr. Timothy Amao. This was followed by the prayer of dedication, offered by Rev. Prof. Olusayo B. Oladejo, the Deputy President Academics. It was a solemn plea for divine guidance and strength for the new students as they embark on this challenging, yet rewarding journey. The prayer underscored the seminary’s commitment to nurturing leaders grounded in faith and wisdom. The ceremony drew to a close with the singing of the hymn of Commitment, “The Master Hath Come” (BH 427), again led by Rev. Dr. Timothy Amao.
Before the closing of the service, Rev. Dr. Dele Oluwole made brief announcements, ensuring that the day’s proceedings flowed seamlessly. The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer led by Rev. Prof. Olusola Ayo-Obiremi, the Deputy President Advancement, and the benediction, pronounced by the President. As if putting a stamp of approval on the occasion, God sent a heavy downpour of rain and it was indeed an answer to prayers for blessing of rain and aversion of famine.
All matriculants recessed, led by the principal officers, officiating ministers and faculty members. s the recessional concluded, the hall buzzed with the excitement and joy of new beginnings. Students, along with their families and friends, lingered to capture the moment, taking photographs and celebrating the milestone.
The day marked not just the start of an academic journey, but the forging of a new community bound by shared faith and purpose. For NBTS, this matriculation was more than a ceremony—it was a reaffirmation of the institution’s legacy of excellence in theological education, and a hopeful glimpse into the future leaders of the church who will emerge from its ranks. As the oldest and largest theological seminary in Africa, NBTS continues to be a beacon of spiritual and academic excellence, shaping the future leaders of the Christian faith across the continent.
Simon Abolaji
for NBTS Advancement Unit
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