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The Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) through its president Israel Akanji says the Church is preparing a new generation of leaders who can combine faith with practical solutions to national challenges.
Akanji made this known during the recently concluded second edition of the NBC’s Arise Congress, a four-day convocation that drew over 20,000 youth and leaders from across Nigeria.
The congress, held at the Baptist International Convention Centre (BICC) along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, was themed ‘Emergence of Champions.’
Akanji, who declared the event open said that the Arise Congress 2.0 underscored the Baptist Convention’s commitment to raising a generation of leaders equipped with values, skills, and vision to contribute to Nigeria’s future.
One of the highlights was the launch of the Baptist Youth in Agriculture Initiative (BAYIA), aimed at tackling unemployment and food insecurity through agribusiness training and empowerment.
Akanji explained that agriculture remains central to human survival. “No matter the innovation or technology, people will always need food to survive. That is why we are training our youth in agriculture,” he said, adding that his own family had benefited greatly from farming.
During the congress, some participants received grants after submitting proposals, while new youth executives were appointed. Also, competitions and seminars ranging from quiz contests to a relationship lecture kept the gathering vibrant.
The event was also filled with deep moments of worship and prayer, creating an atmosphere that reinforced the spiritual focus of the congress.
Adewale Iyanuoluwa, one of the beneficiaries of the agriculture initiative, said the scheme would help Baptist youth nationwide see farming as a viable pathway to empowerment.
The program also featured a rich line-up of ministers. Patrick White, in his teaching he stressed that faithfulness, courage, and devotion even in obscurity are essential qualities for anyone seeking global impact.
Deremi Atanda, chief executive of Remita, challenged the participants to embrace technology as a tool for solving problems. “Champions must be goal-driven, start small but dream big, collaborate effectively, and remain resilient.”
Similarly, David Abioye urged the youth to understand that champions are not born but made through discipline, hard work, and perseverance. “A champion is not challenge-free. Champions don’t give up,” he emphasized.
Other ministers at the event included Fela Durotoye, Samson Adedokun and Israel Kristilere who reinforced the theme of the congress with messages on character and the pursuit of excellence.
