23/04/2026
113th Nigerian Baptist Convention Ends with Colourful Parade, Honours, and Awards
The 113th Annual Session of the Nigerian Baptist Convention came to a grand and colourful close with an elaborate parade by the Royal Ambassadors and Lydias, marking the end of a spiritually enriching and activity-filled gathering.
The closing ceremony, which attracted delegates from across the country and beyond, was characterised by pomp, precision, and vibrant displays of discipline as the uniformed groups marched in coordinated formations. The parade reflected not only the organisational strength of the Convention but also the commitment of its youth and women’s arms to service, leadership, and Christian witness.
The event was graced by prominent international and continental Baptist leaders, including the General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Baptist World Alliance, Dr Elijah Brown, who attended alongside his Executive Assistant, Oral Rhodes. Also present was the General Secretary of the All Africa Baptist Fellowship (AABF), Rev. Elias Apetogbo. Their participation highlighted the global and regional significance of the Convention and reinforced ties within the worldwide Baptist community.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the ceremonial pull-out parade held in honour of the outgoing President of the Convention, Dr Israel Adelani Akanji. The colourful and symbolic procession served as a formal farewell, celebrating his years of dedicated leadership, impactful reforms, and contributions to the growth and stability of the Convention. Delegates responded with admiration and appreciation, acknowledging his service with enthusiasm.
In another significant moment, the Executive Director of the Women Missionary Union (WMU), Dr Mrs Rachel Lateju, was presented with the Convention’s flag. The presentation symbolised continuity in mission work and reaffirmed the vital role of the WMU in advancing evangelism, discipleship, and community development across the Convention.
The competitive segment of the parade brought excitement to a peak, as participating Conferences showcased exceptional coordination, creativity, and uniformity. After careful evaluation, Kaduna Baptist Conference emerged as the overall winner, clinching first position. Southern Kaduna Conference followed in second place, while Rivers Baptist Conference secured third position. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Conference placed fourth, with Gongola Baptist Conference finishing fifth. The performances were widely applauded for their excellence and high standards.
As the curtains fell on the 113th session, the leadership of the Convention expressed deep appreciation to all delegates, organisers, and participating Conferences for their contributions to the success of the event. The session, which featured worship, teachings, strategic meetings, and fellowship, was widely regarded as impactful and unifying.
The Nigerian Baptist Convention is expected to reconvene for its next annual session in 2027 in Lufuwape, Ogun State, where members will once again gather for spiritual renewal, decision-making, and collective advancement of the Convention’s mission.
