By Dayo Emmanuel
The West Africa Theological Seminary (WATS), Lagos, has announced the appointment of Dr. Olufemi Emmanuel as its Acting Provost.
The appointment was made during a joint meeting of the Board of Trustees (BOT) and the Governing Council, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history.
The announcement was made during the chapel service on Wednesday, where Major General Kayode Oni (Rtd.), Chairman of the Governing Council, officially introduced Dr. Emmanuel to the WATS community as the Acting Provost of the institution affiliated to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Asbury Theological Seminary, USA.
In his address, General Oni emphasized the importance of unwavering trust in God during transitions and challenges.
Quoting Isaiah 26:3-4, he encouraged the seminary to remain steadfast, trusting in the Lord’s perfect plan.
WATS founder, Professor Gary Maxey, expressed his excitement about the seminary’s future, stating:
“So many wonderful things are happening. So many people are looking our way. So many have great expectations for what will continue to come from WATS, and I believe God for great days ahead.”
Upon his introduction, Dr. Olufemi Emmanuel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, pledging his commitment to advancing the seminary’s mission.
“It is with deep gratitude and a sense of humility before God that I accept the call to lead the seminary into the promising future that lies ahead,” he said.
Emmanuel continued that, “My readiness to shoulder this responsibility is inspired by God’s word in 1 Corinthians 1:26-30 and Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NLT).”
He however appeared to members of the seminar’s community on the need to unite and work together as one.
“My appeal to all members of the WATS community is to come together and unite our efforts to strengthen our institution. We must unite the WATS family as quickly as possible. The Lord Jesus said, ‘A house divided against itself cannot stand.’ We must stand together behind the founding vision of this seminary and move forward into the bright future that awaits us. I believe we can achieve this together. Thank you, and God bless you.”
Emmanuel, who got his PhD at the Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary, Abeokuta, Ogun State,
had served in several key positions at WATS for many years.
Among others, he was formerly the Coordinator of Student Affairs; Head of Department, Biblical Studies; Associate Dean Undergraduate Studies; Dean of Academics and until recently, Dean of Spiritual Formation and Practical Ministry.
The seminary also acknowledged the Right Reverend, Professor Dapo Asaju, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, for his leadership and continued support of WATS.
WATS remains committed to its vision of equipping men and women for effective Christian ministry across Nigeria and beyond.
