Ogbomoso: The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Ogbomoso, has urged gospel ministers to prioritise building good relationships with God, family members, and other people around them. NBTS President, Prof. Stephen Ayankeye, emphasized this during a news conference on the forthcoming 2025 NBTS Ministers’ Conference, scheduled to hold from Sept. 8 to Sept. 11.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the theme of the conference, ‘The Gospel Minister and His Relationships’, was chosen in light of the current situation in Nigeria, where some gospel ministers are found lacking in their relationship with God, family members, and ministerial colleagues. Ayankeye highlighted that this deficiency contributes to rising tension in intra-personal, interpersonal, and human-divine relationships within society.
The NBTS President noted that the conference aims to examine this theme from various perspectives to promote peaceful co-existence at home and in society, aligning with the Seminary’s mission. The event is intended to equip and reinvigorate gospel ministers for Godly living and effective ministries.
Ayankeye also mentioned that the conference includes a continuing education program, designed to update the academic and professional knowledge of gospel ministers. This initiative aims to enhance their ministerial skills and provide opportunities for fellowship and denominational promotion.
The NBTS President called on political office holders and government officials to be more intentional in restoring economic, social, and educational vibrancy in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of ensuring security to allow residents to work peacefully.
Ayankeye urged citizens to abide by the law and regularly pray for leaders, emphasizing the collective responsibility to restore Nigeria’s glory. He noted that the conference, to be held at the NBTS Alumni Multipurpose Hall, will feature key program personnel, including Reverend Israel Akanji, President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, and Rev. Dickson Madogwe, the immediate past Vice President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.
He encouraged the active participation of all categories of gospel ministers and assured adequate security arrangements for the safety of all conference participants.
