By Adelanke Akinmoladun
In a milestone celebration filled with heartfelt gratitude to God, Estate Baptist Church, Ijapo, Akure, on March 21, 2026, marked 25 years of God’s faithfulness since its establishment.
The church, under the Nigeria Baptist Convention, was founded on March 18, 2001, and celebrated this significant milestone as a testament to God’s faithfulness, sufficient grace, mercy, and the church’s spiritual growth since inception.
In his sermon titled “God’s Treasured Possessions,” the President of the Nigeria Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, noted that God has certain treasures that belong to Him, as highlighted in Psalm 100. He prayed that the church would be counted among God’s treasured possessions.
Rev. Dr. Akanji emphasized the importance of making a joyful noise unto the Lord as a vital expression of praise. He outlined God’s treasured possessions to include His people, His pasture, His gates, His courts, His name, His mercies, and His faithfulness.
He further encouraged members to give generously unto God, highlighting the blessings attached to giving. He thereafter handed over to the Ondo State Baptist Conference President, Rev. Dr. Saturday Obateru, for the coordination of the proposed ₦30 million church evangelism bus project.
In his remarks, Rev. Dr. Obateru urged members to give bountifully, reflecting on God’s goodness over the church’s 25-year journey. He led by example with a donation of ₦100,000, while others followed suit.
As part of the celebration, Rev. Dr. Ayoola Oladapo led the launching of the church’s history book, which was reviewed by the wife of the National President of the Nigeria Baptist Convention, Rev. Mrs. Victoria Sunshine Akanji. She described the church as a peculiar and spiritually vibrant congregation.
The celebration also featured the presentation of awards to deserving individuals. The pioneer pastor, Rev. Dr Joshua Ibukunoluwa, was honored, alongside posthumous awards presented to late church heroes, including Late Chief Jide Fanimi (popularly known as Toyin Bookshop), Late Hon. Komolafe, Late Chief Olagunju, Late Chief Ogundare, Late Chief Oshatuberu and Late Adeusi. Other awards were presented to Elder Olofin and several others for their contributions to the growth of the church.
The anniversary activities climaxed on Sunday, March 19, 2026, with a thanksgiving service featuring renditions from various choir groups. The sermon was delivered by Rev. Dr Joshua Ibukunoluwa, the pioneer pastor of the church, who admonished the congregation on the importance of gratitude and faithfulness to God.
A celebratory cake was cut to mark the Silver Jubilee, after which food and refreshments were shared, while photographs were taken to commemorate the joyous occasion.
Reacting, the church pastor, Rev. Dr. Adeyemi Akintunde, expressed his joy at hosting the National President of the Nigeria Baptist Convention and witnessing the 25th anniversary of Estate Baptist Church in good health and spiritual growth.
Speaking on behalf of the anniversary committee, the Chairperson, Deaconess Temilola Aibinuomo, returned all glory to God and appreciated members of the committee for their cooperation. She acknowledged members including Elder Akin Olofin, Mrs. Remi Ogundare, Elder Alaba Gbadegeshin, and Deacon Mayokun Akinmoladun for their dedication and support.
Notable members of Baptist churches, as well as citizens from across Nigeria, were in attendance at the event.
The anniversary was not just a celebration but a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness, as well as the church’s spiritual growth and expansion over the past 25 years, with a renewed commitment to spreading the Gospel.
Omolola Akinbo reporting for Platinum TV
