Writing By Teddy Daniel; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The Baptist Theological Seminary, Kaduna, under the Nigeria Baptist Convention, has appealed to the international community to adopt constructive measures that will support Nigeria’s pursuit of peace, security, and religious freedom.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Seminary’s 65th Annual Ministers’ Conference, held in kaduna with the theme, “The Authority of Scripture and the Mission of the Church in Troubled Times.”
Delegates at the week long conference, which brought together pastors and church leaders from the 19 Northern States and the FCT, expressed concern over moves by the U.S. Senate to list Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for alleged religious freedom violations.
The Conference warned that labeling Nigeria as a CPC could worsen insecurity by restricting access to critical military assistance needed to combat terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes.
It therefore urged foreign governments and international partners to adopt collaborative approaches that promote peacebuilding, justice, and mutual understanding rather than punitive measures.
While acknowledging the reality of Christian persecution through killings and discrimination, the Conference maintained that true progress would come from global cooperation, interfaith dialogue, and moral reformation grounded in biblical principles.
Reaffirming the supremacy of the Holy Scriptures as the final authority for faith, morality, and conduct, the ministers emphasized that obedience to God’s Word remains the surest path to spiritual renewal and lasting peace in Nigeria.
They charged church leaders to lead by example in honesty, humility, and compassion, and to confront corruption and moral decay through integrity and service.
The Conference also cautioned against extravagant wedding and burial practices, describing them as unbiblical and burdensome to families.
Expressing concern over the silence of some church leaders on national issues, the delegates urged ministers to speak truth to power with courage and wisdom, insisting that the Church must remain the conscience of the nation and the voice of the voiceless.
The Seminary’s Board of Governors further reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening theological education and leadership development, while urging Christians to participate actively in the 2027 general elections as part of their civic and moral duty toward righteous governance.
The Conference commended President Bola Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for promoting unity and security, but urged all levels of government to strengthen peace efforts, ensure justice for victims, and tackle worsening economic hardship.
The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of the Board of Governors, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, and the Acting President of the Seminary, Rev. Dr. Mannaseh Panpe.
