BGCT provides computers for Nigerian Baptists

Posted: 1/06/06

BGCT provides computers for Nigerian Baptists

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

The Baptist General Convention of Texas has shipped more than seven dozen computers to the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

Eighty-seven computers, 90 computer monitors, mice, keyboards and some spare parts were shipped to Ibadan–the location of the Nigerian convention's offices–in mid-December. The items are estimated to arrive in late January.

The donated computers will update the convention's technology and assist leaders in administrative duties. Gerald Davis, strategist for the BGCT equipping ministries team, said the computers will be used to create a lab for the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary in Ogbomosho and an Internet café.

“The building of a technology infrastructure for the Nigerian Baptist Convention is a great feat that was made possible by so many Texas Baptists,” said Michael Evans, director of BGCT African-American ministries who helped with the project.

“About 8,000 of the dollars were given by African-American churches. This goes to show together we can truly do more than if we were alone or separate.”

The Internet café will be open to the public, and organizers hope it will generate revenue for the Baptist medical clinic in the city, Davis said.

The shipment of computers is part of a larger relationship between the BGCT and the Nigerian Baptist Convention, said Don Sewell, who leads Texas Baptist partnership efforts. Many needs can be met by Texas Baptists who are willing to serve in Nigeria, he noted.

“The sharing of these computers is simply one important facet of our overarching partnership with Nigeria,” he said. “We look forward to sending volunteer teams to assist in all forms of evangelism and ministry.”