The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, has stressed the importance of theological education in fostering understanding, dialogue, and effective responses to societal challenges.
He also called for enforcing the urgency of integrating theological education with peace-building efforts ,barring that theological institutions must not only teach but also lead in the pursuit of reconciliation.
In a release by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Alaafin made the made the observations today when he received in audience the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Reverend Dr. David Olusola Idowu, who led other members of the executives on a courtesy visit.
Oba Owoade lauded the newed commitment of the Nigerian Baptist Convention to promoting dialogue, equip leaders, and break barriers that divide communities of faith.
“” The Baptist Convention must also be commended for fostering national stability and development l, providing essential educational and healthcare infrastructures, promoting peaceful interfaith coexistence, as well as running poverty-alleviation and vocational training programmes that empower marginalized communities across the country””.
Oba Owoade noted with satisfaction the Nigerian Baptist Convention approach to addressing conflict matters by involving local churches and facilitating dialogue through self-understanding in conflict transformation in the Northern part of the country.
According to him, “” the Nigerian Baptist Convention Theological Seminary is not merely Academic Centres, but as key agents in NBC’s broader response to religious conflict.
“” Interreligious or interfaith dialogue is unarguably significant for enabling religious leaders and communities to work together towards a common goal, fostering trust and solidarity, and enhancing the effectiveness of peacebuilding efforts.
“” It enables individuals from diverse religious backgrounds to engage in constructive conversations, fostering mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance.
Interfaith dialogue can be a means to address religious crises by promoting understanding, tolerance, and cooperation””, Alaafin asserted.
Earlier, NBC President Rev. Dr. Idowu, said he and his executive members were in the Palace to greet the Paramount Ruler, pray for him, letting him know that his son emerged as the new Baptist Convention President along with the executives, seeking synergy with the Palace for the good of all and to invite the Alaafin to his induction programme scheduled for next month.
Rev. Dr. Idowu later prayed for divine rulership , long life and , good health for the Alaafin, his family and the entire workforce.
