The ECWA International Pastors’ Conference 2025, themed “You Will Seek Me and Find Me” (Jeremiah 29:13), was held at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State.

In his address, the ECWA President, Rev. Dr. Job Ayuba Bagat Mallam, expressed deep gratitude to God, describing the gathering as a divine appointment, designed to bring refreshing, empowerment, and unity to all participants.

Rev. Bagat highlighted the contemporary demands on pastoral ministry, urging pastors to courageously confront insecurity, moral relativism, and the growing temptation of prosperity-centered preaching. He emphasized that the 2025 theme draws from the prophet Jeremiah, who ministered during a time of national crisis and spiritual decline, stressing the importance of wholehearted devotion to God.

He reminded pastors of their calling as spiritual leaders, charged with modeling humility, purity, and single-minded determination. “Let this time be one of renewal, connection, and divine strengthening,” he urged. He further encouraged pastors to guide believers into cultivating a hatred for sin, hunger for God’s Word, commitment to fellowship, and passion for evangelism, while equipping them to use their gifts in service to the church and society.

He reiterated on the need for ministers to strengthen theological training, build emotional resilience, develop digital literacy, and enhance cultural awareness to remain effective in today’s complex environment. 

Delivering the keynote address, the ECWA General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Ayuba Asheshe, speaking on the topic ‘The Pastor and Christian Ministry in the Force of Contemporary Challenges’ said, in an age marked by rapid change, cultural shifts, and unprecedented challenges, the role of the pastor and of  the Christian ministry demands renewed reflection, courage, and commitment. He encouraged pastors to meet today’s challenges with courage and compassion. He identified secularism, skepticism, cultural pluralism, mental health issues, and digital distractions as key factors shaping modern ministry.

Quoting 2 Timothy 4:2, he stated that “The pastoral call today is not only to be shepherds of souls but also navigators of complex social realities.”

Dr. Asheshe stressed that while pastoral methods must evolve, the core biblical message should remain firm. He said the contemporary challenges facing pastors and Christian ministry are significant, but they are not insurmountable.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honor, Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, expressed his joy and privilege to speak in a beautiful gathering as such. He reflected on his Christian upbringing within ECWA Sokoto, expressing profound gratitude for the church’s foundational influence and being part of his history.

General Christopher Gwabin Musa, described the church as an indispensable partner in the quest for peace and security, stressing that no military operation can succeed without the prayers and moral guidance provided by Christian leaders. He emphasized the theme of the conference resonates with the current happenings in the country.  

General Musa urged Christians not to grow weary in the face of Nigeria’s challenges but to remain agents of reconciliation and champions of truth. He also made a passionate appeal for the strengthening of Sunday school education for children, warning that the future of Christendom depends on it.

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of Bingham University Prof. Haruna Kuje Ayuba, welcomed participants and reiterated on the institution’s dedication to combining academic excellence with spiritual growth. He shared that since its inception in 2005, Bingham University has expanded into a prominent faith-based university featuring 15 faculties, 48 undergraduate and 59 postgraduate programmes, serving over 9,000 students. The university has graduated more than 800 medical doctors, 120 pharmacists, 150 lawyers, 300 nurses, along with over 4,000 graduates in various other fields.

He also spoke on the university’s scholarship initiatives, noting that during the 2024/2025 academic session, scholarships totaling over ₦250 million were awarded to 868 students, primarily children of ECWA pastors, members, and staff dependents.

He announced that Bingham University will mark its 20th anniversary in November 2025, featuring activities such as a commemorative book launch, commissioning of new projects, and a grand convocation ceremony on November 15.

Earlier speaking, Bingham University’s ICT Director Mr. Isaac Olakunle Ifawoye, addressed the influence of social media, warning that while digital platforms broaden outreach, they also risk fostering superficial discipleship and internet-driven theology. He recommended churches adopt hybrid ministry models that balance online engagement with face-to-face fellowship.

Other speakers at the conference were; Prof. Emmanuel Anana Itapson who spoke on Contemporary Challenges, Mr. Victor Kuchili spoke on the Empowered Pastor, Mr. Wole Olufon spoke on Legal and Ethical Challenges and Mr. Jonathan Martins spoke on Servant Leadership.

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Directorate of Public Affairs 

Office of the Vice-Chancellor 

Bingham University