The Baptist College of Theology, Oyo, an affiliate of the Nigerian Baptist Theological seminary, Ogbomosho, has celebrated her 48th anniversary while also reiterating its commitment to raising impactful leaders
The anniversary took place on Friday, September 26, 2025 at the expansive Ebenezer Chapel of the College. The event witnessed a large turn out of people.
The Rector of the College, Professor Esther Ayandokun said during the celebration that the Institution remains focused as a dynamic and vibrant theological institution.
“The vision of Baptist College of Theology, Oyo (BCTO) is to provide theological and ministerial training that balances spiritual formation, academic excellence, and practical ministry.” She said.
She stated further that the college has relevance to the African context, equipping students to serve effectively within the Baptist tradition and beyond. The institution aims to be a leading centre for contextualized biblical higher education within the African context.”
Why seminary is unique
Some key aspects that has differentiated the College from others according to Ayandokun are its commitment to spiritual formation, academic excellence and practical ministry.
“We ensure students’ are committed to Jesus Christ and their Christian discipleship. We equip them with a deep understanding of biblical truth, historical doctrinal themes, and theological issues, particularly as they apply to the African context.
“We also train students in the theory and practice of biblical preaching, pastoral care, and counseling to equip them for effective service in the church and society.” She said.
Ayandokun stated further that the seminary places emphasis on contextual relevance by integrating biblical, theological, historical, and practical studies with an evaluation of their relevance to African culture and life Leadership.
Other unique feature of the seminary according to Ayandokun is its commitment to its students. ” We prepare our students in responsible church membership, leadership, and service within the Nigerian Baptist Convention.’ she said.
Vision of the seminary
The vision for establishing the institution at the onset was to train Pastors who would meet the yearnings of hundreds of churches.
“The College has the vision to equip God-called men and women spiritually and academically for the propagation of the gospel of Christ and leadership of local churches
Apart from its theological emphasis the seminary has programmes that help prepare students to face economic challenges in the society.
One of such is the Entrepreneurial Program which educates and enlightens students on the relevance of entrepreneurship
The College also recently Introduced a course, called, Personality Branding and Public Relations for Pastors.
This course according to Professor Ayandokun “is aimed at equipping students of the seminary with requisite skills to remain relevant in Pastoral Ministry. It also helps the students to gain first hand knowledge of how to relate effectively with the Public.”