It was a day of celebration, administrative and spiritual renewal at the Nkwen Baptist Church, at the headquarters of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC), as Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema was formally inducted as the 15th Executive President of the CBC on Saturday, 11 January 2025.
Addressing a full congregation, the firm yet soft-spoken Rev. Dr. Teke outlined his vision for peace, inclusivity, and holistic development, setting the stage for a new chapter in the CBC’s rich 70-year history.
The induction ceremony, marked by solemn prayers, speeches, and resounding hymns, drew an audience of CBC leaders, dedicated faithful, traditional authorities, and well-wishers from across Cameroon and beyond. Rev. Dr. Teke, the second leader from the South West Region in the CBC’s history, succeeds Rev. Dr. Nditemeh Charlemagne, who has served with distinction and candour despite numerous challenges.
In what can be described as his valedictory address, Rev. Dr. Nditemeh Charlemagne reflected on the difficulties he faced during his tenure, particularly from some collaborators. He urged unconditional loyalty to the new leadership, calling on all department heads and field pastors to reaffirm their allegiance through a handshake and a bow. He encouraged the new leaders to focus on their divine calling, performing their duties with integrity, humility, reverence and fear of God.
“The strength of the CBC lies in unity,” he said, emphasising the importance of teamwork under Rev. Dr. Teke’s stewardship.
Rev. Dr. Paul Mokake, Director of Evangelism and Missions, speaking on behalf of the CBC directors, echoed this sentiment.
“We are here, ready and eager to work alongside you, both individually and as a united community, to help you achieve your goals,” he declared, reaffirming the directors’ commitment to supporting the new leadership.
The event was graced by the presence of traditional leaders, including representatives of the Fon of Nkwen, who dedicated the new CBC leadership to God. In his address, Joseph Tamia on behalf of the representatives extended prayers for divine guidance and success, stating,
Joseph Tamia, representative of the Fon of Nkwen“We joyfully extend our prayers and a warm welcome to the new Executive President and the entire CBC Christian community on this occasion, in Jesus' name, Amen”
Rev. Nyumnloh Peter, who delivered the sermon during the induction, challenged the new leadership to emulate the biblical Nehemiah.
“Have a mandate from God, be good listeners, good organisers, and courageous,” he advised, inspiring the congregation with a message of faith and service to God.
Prayers of induction Taking the podium as the new Executive President, Rev. Dr. Teke pledged to lead with an inclusive and peace-centred approach.
“My mandate will focus on peace and holistic development,” he announced, inviting all members of the CBC, including those estranged due to legal disputes, to return to the fold. He urged aggrieved Christians to withdraw their court cases against the church and embrace reconciliation in the body of Christ.
Rev. Dr. Teke’s induction was accompanied by the installation of other key leaders of the CBC. Mr. John Kongor was sworn in as Chairperson, and Madam Sofa Caroline Monten assumed the role of Vice Chairperson. Together, they form a team committed to steering the convention through the next five years, with their mandates renewable once.
Rev Dr. Teke John Ekema (C) John Kongor (R) and Sofa Caroline Monteh (L)The induction of Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema can be described as a fresh start for the Cameroon Baptist Convention. As the 15th Executive President, his leadership promises to uphold the CBC’s legacy while introducing innovative approaches to promote unity and growth. His tenure is expected to bring healing, collaboration, and progress to the CBC community.
As the congregation dispersed from the Nkwen Baptist Church, a sense of renewed purpose and optimism filled the air. It was not just a change of leadership but a collective recommitment to faith, unity, and service under the visionary guidance of Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema.
By Bakah Derick
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Photo credit: Cameroon Baptist Convention Facebook Page