NBTS President Urges Government to Treat Insecurity as a Serious National Priority

The government must treat insecurity with the seriousness it deserves so Nigerians can sleep safely, the president of the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary has said. Rev. Prof. S. Ola Ayankeye made the appeal in Ibadan while discussing preparations for the seminary’s 2026 Ministers’ Conference.

Ayankeye called on political leaders to show stronger commitment in tackling kidnapping, inflation, fuel subsidy concerns and elections. He said government has a duty to make life meaningful for citizens and to protect them wherever they are.

“The value God placed on human life is high that it should not be toyed with,” Ayankeye said. He urged authorities to introduce measures that would restore peace and tranquility, linking the protection of life and property with a sound economy and public safety.

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The value God placed on human life is high that it should not be toyed with.

He said Nigerians were less concerned with whether fuel subsidies had been removed than with seeing the benefits of good governance from the leaders they elected. As general elections approach, he urged politicians and other stakeholders to allow a free and fair election process, guided by the fear of God, and encouraged citizens to participate actively in choosing their leaders.

The conference will take place from September 14 to 17, 2026, under the theme “The Gospel Minister and the Ministerial Competence.” Its programme will include Bible teaching, praise and hymn singing, messages, group discussions, intercessory prayers, witnessing and a football match. Ayankeye said the theme reflects Nigeria’s current economic and security conditions and concerns that some gospel ministers are falling short in their duties.

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As general elections are close by, the politicians and all related stakeholders should endeavour to allow room for free and fair electioneering process.