The ECWA Theological Seminary, Igbaja (ETSI) was founded by Rev. Dr. William G. Crouch, an American missionary from California. He arrived in Nigeria in the early 1940s under the auspices of the Sudan Interior Mission, now known as Serving In Mission (SIM).
Rev. Dr. Crouch had a deep passion for spreading the Gospel and felt a strong calling to bring Christianity to the people of Nigeria. He recognized the need for well-trained pastors and leaders in the growing Nigerian church and saw the establishment of a theological seminary as a vital step towards meeting this need.
In 1941, Rev. Dr. Crouch founded the ECWA Theological Seminary in Igbaja, a town in Kwara State, Nigeria. The seminary was established with the aim of equipping Nigerian pastors and church leaders with a solid theological education so that they could effectively minister to their congregations and communities.
The early years of ETSI were challenging, as Rev. Dr. Crouch had to navigate the cultural, linguistic, and logistical obstacles of starting a seminary in a foreign country. He faced resistance and skepticism from some local communities, but his determination and faith in the mission propelled him forward.
Under Rev. Dr. Crouch’s leadership, ETSI grew steadily, attracting students from various parts of Nigeria and even beyond its borders. The seminary became known for its commitment to theological excellence and practical ministry training. Rev. Dr. Crouch’s vision and dedication laid a solid foundation for the seminary, and his legacy continues to shape its mission and values.
Rev. Dr. Crouch’s impact extended beyond the establishment of ETSI. He was actively involved in the development of the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA), a denomination that played a significant role in the growth of Christianity in Nigeria. His leadership and influence helped shape ECWA’s theological framework and commitment to holistic ministry.
As an expert in this field, I have had the privilege of witnessing the ongoing impact of Rev. Dr. Crouch’s work. ETSI has grown into a renowned theological institution, producing well-equipped pastors and leaders who are making a significant impact in their communities. The seminary’s commitment to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and practical ministry training continues to be a testament to its founder’s vision.
Rev. Dr. William G. Crouch, an American missionary from California, founded the ECWA Theological Seminary, Igbaja in 1941. His passion for spreading the Gospel and his commitment to equipping Nigerian pastors and church leaders led to the establishment of this institution, which has since become a cornerstone of theological education in Nigeria.