McPherson University, Ogun State, in partnership with Christian Leadership Skills Inc., is set to mark a historic milestone as it graduates the first cohort of students from its Executive Diploma in Church Management programme.
At the convocation ceremony, billed for February 28, the 42 pioneering students will be honoured alongside the university’s regular graduates.
Addressing journalists on the forthcoming event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Igbasan, emphasised the significance of the programme, saying every church leader should pass through it for effective missionary service.
According to him, a total of 42 students have successfully completed the programme and will be recognised during the graduation ceremony.
The Executive Diploma in Church Management, which was initiated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in July 2022 between McPherson University and Christian Leadership Skills Inc., is designed to provide church leaders with essential managerial skills to enhance their ministries.
Igbasan noted that the programme is a pioneering effort to reshape the way ministry leaders approach administration and growth.
He added that the impact of this initiative is expected to be far-reaching, fostering leadership that is both biblically sound and operationally effective.
Chief Executive Officer of Christian Leadership Skills Inc., Albert Aina, explained that the course is a three-month online ministerial development and training programme designed for General Overseers, senior pastors, church leaders and Christian business executives.
According to him, the programme was designed to bridge the gap between theological knowledge and effective church administration.
He disclosed that the curriculum was designed by senior pastors and lecturers from McPherson University, covering 10 courses.
Aina said the programme would equip participants with business management principles and leadership tools that align with biblical guidance, helping ministries achieve operational excellence and greater impact.
He said: “Participants will be made to see how business principles and management tools will supercharge their ministries to reach their God-given potential. This programme will help them understand the connection between church services on Sunday and professional responsibilities during the week.”
He said the initiative highlights the increasing need for structured training in church leadership, recognising that managing a ministry can often be more complex than running a for-profit enterprise.
“The programme seeks to empower church leaders to navigate financial constraints, volunteer management, and mission fulfilment more effectively, as many church leaders can’t find the time and finances to attend secular business schools.
“This course serves as an alternative, equipping them with the skills to steer the affairs of their ministries with excellence,” Aina added.
