Youth Leadership: NBC President Calls for Capacity Building

The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC), Reverend Olusola Idowu, has urged youths not to lose hope but to take advantage of available opportunities and prepare adequately for leadership positions at all levels of governance.

Reverend Idowu made the call during the retirement service of his predecessor, Reverend Israel Akanji, held at the First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja.
He said the convention had strengthened its Youth Ministry to build the capacity of young people to navigate future challenges and take up leadership responsibilities.
The NBC President also encouraged youths to draw inspiration from church leaders who have served the nation diligently in both government and ecclesiastical capacities.
Commending Reverend Akanji for 42 years of dedicated service in the Lord’s vineyard, Idowu said his years as a pastor in Lagos and Abuja, as well as his tenure as convention president, contributed immensely to the spiritual growth of the church and the nation.
He urged people in positions of authority to serve God and humanity faithfully, stressing that great rewards await those who serve diligently.
In his tribute, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, praised Reverend Akanji for driving transformation during his tenure representing the North Central zone on the commission.
Bishop Adegbite described him as a prudent manager of resources whose kindness touched the lives of Christians and non-Christians across society.
He urged the leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention to consider increasing the retirement age for ministers beyond 65 to allow experienced leaders more time to mentor the next generation.
Similarly, Mrs Adenike Takpatore, wife of the Pastor-in-Charge of First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja, said Reverend Akanji’s 22-year ministry in the church had profoundly impacted numerous families.
She noted that despite his demanding schedule, Reverend Akanji effectively managed his home while providing strong support to families facing personal challenges.
In his remarks, John Cardinal Onaiyekan described Reverend Akanji as a tireless peacemaker, noting his active involvement in the Inter-Religious Council in promoting dialogue and harmony between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.
More than 20 church leaders from various denominations also paid tribute to Reverend Akanji, commending his steadfast dedication to evangelism and continuous support for the less privileged.