By: Our Correspondent
President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC), Rev. Dr. David Oluwole Idowu, has pledged to review the admission policies across the denomination’s theological institutions to ensure that incoming students reflect the godly character expected of called ministers.
David Idowu made the commitment while receiving a delegation from the Baptist Theological Seminary, Ogbomoso, led by its President, Rev. Prof. Stephen Ayankeye.
Speaking on the need for reform, David Idowu emphasized that the era of “just anybody” gaining entry into the seminary must end.
He stated that admission processes will be tightened so that only genuine, born-again Christians possessing authentic salvation experiences and Christlike character are admitted.
He further urged local churches and individuals who recommend prospective students to conduct thorough character and spiritual evaluations before offering their backing.
Addressing post-graduation standards, the Convention President expressed concern over certain pastors whose conduct after leaving the seminary fails to reflect Christ’s teachings.
He called on seminary leadership to place greater emphasis on teaching students about the Baptist Convention’s Cooperative Program, stressing the importance of commitment and loyalty to the denomination.
Despite these challenges, David Idowu commended dedicated pastors who continue to give their all to Christ’s work and support the Baptist Ministry.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Baptist Convention’s commitment to providing adequate funding for its ten seminaries to guarantee their sustainability and high standards.
Highlighting his primary vision, David Idowu noted that church planting and mission activities remain central to his mandate in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Turning to governance, he cautioned board members serving across various Convention organs to add real value to the system rather than becoming a burden to the institutions they represent.
In his response, the President of the Baptist Theological Seminary, Ogbomoso, Rev. Prof. Stephen Ayankeye, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its consistent subventions to its theological institutions.
He reassured the leadership that the seminary maintains strict disciplinary measures, including expulsion for unethical conduct, to uphold high spiritual and moral standards.
The visit concluded on a celebratory note as the long-awaited PhD certificate of the Convention President was formally presented to him amidst fanfare.
Those on the entourage included; Rev. Prof. Olusola Ayo-Obiremi – Deputy President (Academic), Rev. Dr. Gabriel Oyeniyi – Deputy President (Administration), Rev. Dr. Abraham Adeleye – Deputy President (Advancement), Rev. Segun Olanbola – Registrar, Dr. Olatoye Adebola – Acting LibrarianDr. Opeyemi Fasipe – Bursar, as contained in a statement signed.
Rev Eben Durodola, Baptist Convention PRO.
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