FCT Baptist Conference celebrates 10th anniversary

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Baptist Conference has marked its 10th anniversary with a grand celebration, reflecting on its journey from inception to becoming a key player in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

The celebration brought together church leaders, members, and dignitaries to acknowledge the faithfulness of God and chart a course for the future.

In his welcome address, Reverend Dr. Dogara Raphael Gwana, President of the FCT Baptist Conference, described the conference’s growth as a testimony of divine grace.

“Our story is that of a toddler that has enjoyed privileges reserved for adults. Though young, much has been expected of us, and God has remained our help in the past and our hope for the future,” he said.

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Gwana traced the origins of the conference back to 2015, emphasizing how it evolved from a simple idea into a thriving entity with nearly 250 churches and over 200 pastors. He urged members to remain steadfast in their commitment to church growth, missions, and social ministry.

“We must nurture this seed to full growth and trust God to make it a large garden and a tree that will provide shelter for all,” he added, drawing inspiration from Matthew 13:31-32.

Speaking at the event, Reverend Dr. Israel Akanji, President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, highlighted the remarkable visibility and influence of the FCT Baptist Conference despite its relatively young age.

“The FCT Baptist Conference is only ten years old, yet it has achieved a level of impact that surpasses its age. It is not young in capacity, missions, evangelism, or visibility. Its strategic location in the nation’s capital has increased its influence, especially in national and interdenominational programs,” Akanji noted.

He also placed the conference’s growth within the broader history of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, which is celebrating 175 years of Baptist work in Nigeria.

He encouraged the leadership to stay focused on the mission and continue leveraging its unique position for the greater good.

The event also highlighted the vital role of women and youth in the church’s growth. Pastor Saadatu Yashin, Director of the Baptist Women Missionary Union (WMU), emphasized the importance of grooming young people in the faith.

“There are structured plans in place to raise a new generation of believers who will know God, understand His Word, and live as responsible Christians in society,” she said.

Pastor Yashin also spoke on the need for greater respect for women in leadership, condemning sexual harassment and urging men to recognise women as equal partners in God’s work.

“If they truly understand who women are, they will treat them with respect, not as objects but as fellow creations in the image of God,” she added.

Gwana concluded the celebration with a call to unity, dedication, and purpose-driven leadership.

“We must put aside stereotypes and prejudices that hinder progress. The dream of our founding fathers must remain central in our pursuit of the future. Together, we can achieve more,” he said.

He emphasised that the next phase of the conference’s journey would require increased commitment to spiritual growth, community impact, and resource mobilisation.