Baptist Theological Seminary Kaduna Strengthens Strategic Partnership with Alumni Fellowship

By Samuel Solomon

In a significant move to bolster institutional growth and academic excellence, the Executive Committee of the Alumni Fellowship of the Baptist Theological Seminary (BTS) Kaduna paid a formal courtesy visit to the newly appointed President, Rev. Dr Babatunde Ogunlana , on the 16th of July 2026.

The delegation, led by Chairman Rev Dr Iliya Katung, included Rev. Dr Segun Oyedokun (Prayer Coordinator), Rev. Paul Ola Idowu (Alumni Representative), Rev. Yohanna Gyara, Rev. Jeremiah Ekwe Moses (Secretary) and Rev Dr Samson Iliya (Auditor).

A Shared Vision for Growth

During the meeting, the Alumni Fellowship reaffirmed its status as a premier stakeholder in the Seminary’s success. Rev. Dr Katung expressed the fellowship’s profound gratitude to the new leadership and pledged a committed, cordial working relationship aimed at the institution’s progressive development. The alumni also commended the Seminary on the successful launch of its PhD and Bachelor of Christian Ministry (BCM) programs, while advocating for a balanced approach to student discipline that remains “friendly yet principled”.

Presidential Recognition of Alumni Impact

In his response, President Rev. Dr Babatunde Ogunlana formally recognised the alumni as the third most vital stakeholder group, following the Board of Governors and the Faculty. He expressed deep appreciation for the fellowship’s historic contributions, specifically noting the provision of a block-making machine, the chapel project at the new site, and various gifts to faculty and staff. Dr Ogunlana appealed for sustained support as the Seminary embarks on its next chapter.

Innovative Collaboration and Digital Transformation

The meeting outlined several strategic initiatives designed to integrate the alumni more deeply into the Seminary’s academic and spiritual life:
• Comprehensive Database : BTS Kaduna will develop a robust alumni database to facilitate seamless, effective communication.
• Continuous Learning: The Seminary is introducing refresher courses and specialised online training during minimesters. In an exciting development, qualified alumni will be invited to serve as facilitators for these sessions.
• Mentorship and Devotion: To bridge the gap between current students and experienced practitioners, alumni will be integrated into chapel devotions, allowing students to learn directly from those in the field.
• Academic Co-Training: The President highlighted the role of alumni as “co-trainers” in supervised ministry. While accreditation requirements limit the number of adjunct lecturers, the Seminary remains committed to involving alumni in the academic process where possible.

Commitment to Excellence
The administration reaffirmed its dedication to a “spiritual, moral, ministerial, and intellectual formation”. To support this, the Seminary is reworking its catalogue with alumni input and strengthening its Code of Conduct to ensure a disciplined and world-class training environment.

This visit marks the beginning of a renewed era of collaboration, ensuring that Baptist Theological Seminary Kaduna remains a beacon of sound theological training and ministerial excellence.