Construction of Women’s Training Centre

Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary, Ogbomoso
Status: Completed in 2021
Project Managers: Dr. Ruth Oyeniyi and Kevin Reece

After nearly four years of phased construction while funds were raised in stages, the new home for the Women’s Training Centre at the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary was dedicated on August 7, 2020. The building is complete with furnishings and equipment, and is in full operation.

Because of the Covid pandemic, NFW could only be present at the dedication ceremonies by Zoom, and NFW President Kevin Reece spoke to those assembled. “This centre will help women grow in their faith as they develop skills and capabilities that will enable them to be effective contributors to their communities and equal partners with their husbands in Christian ministry,” he said.

The new building is a multi-purpose facility that prepares women for leadership roles that no man could fulfill, and is a place where women from different tribes and backgrounds find common ground and common dreams. The Centre provides a range of services for the wives of seminary students, helping the women become well-equipped partners with their pastor husbands in leading churches. Classes include general theology, spiritual guidance, church music, and social skills.

The WTC also teaches women many important practical skills. One is how to start a small business; churches often can’t afford to pay their pastor a full salary, so the wives will be able to supplement their families’ incomes. Other training includes health and hygiene, pre- and post-natal care, and nutrition.

The women are preparing to become women of standing in the communities where they will go on to serve. About 90% of Nigerians struggle to live on less than $2 a day, so the WTC graduates will be going to live in places where big challenges will be waiting. When women lead, they can be a powerful force against poverty, hunger, illness, lack of schools, and other challenges. This steady line of Christian women leaders will go to serve throughout Nigeria and in some cases to other parts of Africa.

 

“I have seen this vision finally come true with your help! Thank you so much.”
—Dr. Ruth Oyeniyi
Director of Women’s Services