Baptist Youths Seek Greater Commitment to Nigeria’s Future

–Bowen University Osun State

The Nigerian Baptist Convention Youth Conference (NBCYC) has urged governments at all levels to adopt more youth-friendly policies and invest in programmes that will unlock the enormous potential of young Nigerians, even as it reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through leadership development, agriculture, entrepreneurship, missions, and strategic partnerships.

Speaking during 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 made significant strides within the first eleven months of the current administration by implementing impactful programmes designed to strengthen the capacity and influence of Baptist youths across Nigeria.

According to him, the administration has successfully delivered leadership development initiatives, mission outreaches, executive retreats, youth conventions, agricultural empowerment programmes, media engagement activities, and strategic policy reforms that have enhanced the operations and relevance of the Conference.

Kadanga 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 outstanding support for youth development, particularly through the Arise Congress, which he described as one of the most impactful youth-focused initiatives of the Convention in recent years.

He also congratulated the newly elected President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. David Olusola Idowu, assuring him of the total support and cooperation of Baptist youths. While pledging continued collaboration, he appealed for increased funding for youth programmes, greater youth representation in leadership and decision-making processes, and stronger institutional partnerships to accelerate youth development within the Convention.

Addressing the state of the nation, the NBCYC President expressed concern over Nigeria’s prevailing socio-economic and security challenges. He stressed that governments must place greater priority on the welfare, safety, education, employment, and empowerment of young people, noting that sustainable national development can only be achieved when youths are equipped with the right opportunities and enabling environment to thrive.

“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,” he said.

Kadanga concluded by expressing profound 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 unwavering commitment to the success of the 52nd Annual Session.

The annual gathering brought together Baptist youths, church leaders, ministers, and delegates from across the country for worship, leadership engagement, capacity building, and deliberations on issues affecting the Church and national development.