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GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT PASTOR ERTON KÖHLER ENCOURAGES BABCOCK UNIVERSITY TO ADVANCE GLOBAL MISSION

Posted on Juil 04 2026

GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT PASTOR ERTON KÖHLER ENCOURAGES BABCOCK UNIVERSITY TO ADVANCE GLOBAL MISSION

[Accueil du Président de la Conférence Générale par le Prof. Ojewole, Recteur de l'Université Babcock.]
Par Josephine Akarue et Sandra Ikegwuruka

Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria – July 3, 2026 – In a vibrant display of unity and mission, over 2000 people across 22 countries of the West-Central Africa Division (WAD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church turned out in bright colours and flags, defying the elements to welcome the President of the General Conference of the SDA Church, Pastor Erton Köhler. The visit which lit up the campus with youth band and music, underscored Babcock University’s commitment to global mission, Adventist heritage and academic excellence.
Aside University officials, the visit also had the WAD President, Pastor (Prof) Bassey Udoh, President of the Central Africa Mission, Pastor (Prof) Oyeleke Owolabi and other Divisional leaders, Union and Conference Presidents and delegates of the Minsterial Bible Conference and Leadership Summit holding in Babcock.

Pastor Köhler and his delegation arrived from the GC headquarters in Maryland, USA, about 8:00pm in company with other GC leaders. The visit which was his first to Babcock as the GC President, was to encourage delegates at the WAD Ministerial Conference and promote the OneVoice 27, a global mission initiative to reach the world with the gospel message.

Describing Babcock University as a shining light and one of the most influential Adventist Universities worldwide, Pastor Kohler noted, “We are always counting on you to form the new set of leaders who will be committed to mission not only in Africa but all around the world.”
He commended the University's culture of excellence and its intentional commitment to serving as God's voice within an academic environment where many seek hope and purpose. He encouraged the University community to embrace the global OneVoice27 evangelistic initiative, calling on members to unite in sharing the everlasting gospel globally.

In response, Prof. Ojewole said, “This moment is not only historic and divine, it will go into the annals of the University as one that celebrated our unwavering dedication to advancing the gospel mission.”

He noted that proclaiming the Adventist message remains a defining pillar of the University's vision and administration with its estimated 20,000 population of community members.

Josephine Akarue and Sandra Ikegwuruka
Babcock University’s Department of Communication,
Media and Branding