Baptist Youths Call for Greater Investment in Nigeria’s Future

The Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference (NBCYC) has called on governments at all levels to implement more youth-friendly policies and invest in programmes that will unlock the vast potential of young Nigerians. The Conference also reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through leadership development, agriculture, entrepreneurship, missions, and strategic partnerships.
Speaking at the 52nd Annual Session of the NBCYC held at Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, the National President of the Conference, Amb. Amos Barnabas Kadanga, said the organisation had recorded significant achievements within the first eleven months of the current administration by implementing impactful programmes aimed at strengthening the capacity and influence of Baptist youths across Nigeria.
Kadanga stated that the administration had successfully delivered leadership development programmes, mission outreaches, executive retreats, youth conventions, agricultural empowerment initiatives, media engagement activities, and strategic policy reforms that have improved the operations and relevance of the Conference.
He reaffirmed the Conference’s unwavering loyalty to the Nigerian Baptist Convention and commended the immediate past Convention President, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, for his remarkable support for youth development, particularly through the Arise Congress, which he described as one of the Convention’s most impactful youth-focused initiatives in recent years.
The NBCYC President also congratulated the newly elected President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. David Olusola Idowu, assuring him of the full support and cooperation of Baptist youths. He appealed for increased funding for youth programmes, greater youth representation in leadership and decision-making, and stronger institutional partnerships to accelerate youth development within the Convention.
Speaking on the state of the nation, Kadanga expressed concern over Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges. He urged governments to prioritise the welfare, safety, education, employment, and empowerment of young people, stressing that sustainable national development depends on providing youths with the right opportunities and an enabling environment to succeed.
According to him, “As the future and driving force of our nation, young people must be intentionally empowered through sound policies, quality education, skills development, and economic opportunities.”
Kadanga expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, officers of the Youth Department, volunteers, ministers, facilitators, and members of the NBCYC Executive Committee for their dedication, sacrifices, and commitment to the success of the 52nd Annual Session.
The annual gathering attracted Baptist youths, church leaders, ministers, and delegates from across the country for worship, leadership engagement, capacity building, and discussions on issues affecting the Church and national development.