Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. Joseph John Hayab, has congratulated the outgoing President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, on the successful completion of his five-year tenure, describing his leadership as one that fostered unity, strengthened the Convention and projected Nigerian Baptists across Africa.
Hayab, who is also the Senior Pastor of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, Gonin Gora, Kaduna made this knowm in a statement on Friday July 31
He said Akanji’s tenure would be remembered for providing stable and Christ-centred leadership at a period when many institutions were grappling with internal divisions.
Akanji succeeded Rev. Dr. Samson Ayokunle in 2021.
According to Hayab, the outgoing president of the convention led the “Convention with wisdom, humility and unwavering commitment to the Great Commission. He ensured. that the Baptist family remained united and focused on evangelism, discipleship and missions.”
Describing Akanji’s time as President of the convention as a period of unity, stability and purposeful leadership, Hyab said, he “kept the Baptist family together, strengthened the mission of the Church and remained a courageous voice for righteousness and national development.
“Akanji’s service on the African stage enhanced the influence of the Nigerian Baptist Convention and promoted stronger cooperation among Baptist churches across the continent.” Hayab said.
The northern Christian leader prayed that God would grant the outgoing Convention President good health, renewed strength and greater opportunities for continued service in God’s vineyard.
He also congratulated the incoming President of the Convention, Rev. Dr. David Olusola Idowu, urging Baptists across the country to support his leadership with prayers and commitment to preserving the unity and vision that characterised Akanji’s administration.