Nkwen Baptist Church on Sunday, June 7, celebrated the retirement of Rev. Dr. Njini Edward Lemnga, bringing to a close 31 years of pastoral ministry in the Cameroon Baptist Convention and 18 years of leadership as Senior Pastor of one of the denomination's most influential congregations.
"Retirement is a blessing, not a curse," declared Rev. Dr. Vegah Shadrach in a sermon that set the tone for the celebration.
Preaching from Numbers 8:23-26, he challenged believers to see retirement as a transition rather than an ending.
"You are retired, but not tired," he told the celebrant. "Retirement is reassignment."
Rev. Dr. Vegah Shadrach
For those who know Rev. Dr. Njini, his ministry can be summed up in one phrase: faithfulness to Scripture.
From Nkambe Baptist Church, where he began ministry in 1995, through nine years in the administrative office of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, to 18 years at Nkwen Baptist Church, colleagues say he remained unwavering in his commitment to biblical teaching.
Speaking to Hilltopvoices after the service, Rev. Dr. Njini Edward identified the same commitment as the defining legacy of his ministry.
"God called me to preach His word. I have preached His word and tried to apply it throughout my ministry," he said.
That conviction was symbolically demonstrated during one of the most memorable moments of the service when he handed over the church Bible before stepping down.
Rev. Dr. Njini Edward Lemnga addressing the event
Drawing from Joshua 1, the scripture he says inspired his call to ministry, he urged church leaders to remain anchored on God's word.
"If this church desires to prosper and succeed, hold on to this word," he charged.
Tributes during the service painted the picture of a leader who strengthened both church and community.
Under his leadership, Nkwen Baptist Church completed major infrastructure improvements and expanded its social outreach.
Among the most celebrated achievements was the church borehole, which has provided free water to surrounding communities since 2016, becoming a lifeline during recurring water shortages in Bamenda.
Appointed Deacon Michael Fombi described the project as one of the church's most visible contributions to the community.
Beyond physical development, speakers pointed to a ministry that prioritised discipleship, evangelism and church unity.
A documentary screened during the service recalled the difficult circumstances under which Rev. Dr. Njini Edward arrived at Nkwen Baptist Church in 2007.
The congregation was battling internal tensions and divisions.
"I have always cherished unity," he reflected in the documentary.
Eighteen years later, many worshippers credit him with helping to stabilise and strengthen the congregation.
The impact of Rev. Dr. Njini's ministry was also felt beyond church circles.
The President of the Wimbum Cultural and Development Association (WICUDA), Yembe Emmanuel praised him for his active involvement in community affairs and his commitment to the Wimbum community.
"He did not only stay in the church. He stayed in the community," he said.
The retirement service also witnessed the presentation of a book documenting the history of Nkwen Baptist Church, highlighting the congregation's role in church planting, education, healthcare and community development.
Presenting the publication, CBC Communications Director Dr. Emmanuel Woloko Mbua described Nkwen Baptist Church as a strategic pillar of the convention whose influence extends across Bamenda and beyond.
The celebration was marked by moments of gratitude and emotion.
Mrs. Njini Edward thanked the congregation for standing with her family throughout their years of ministry, describing Nkwen Baptist Church as a community that had enlarged their lives and strengthened their faith.
"We love you so much," she told worshippers.
For many members, the farewell was deeply personal.
"It is emotional... He picked up the gospel and served faithfully. He stood for the truth." admitted Appointed Deacon Michael Fombi.
Delivering the official retirement charge, Bamenda Field Pastor Rev. Richard Apongnde released Rev. Dr. Njini Edward from the responsibilities of office while reminding him that his calling remains intact.
"You are retiring from a paycheck, not from your calling," he said.
He urged the retired pastor to rest, mentor younger ministers and continue serving the kingdom in new ways.
The Executive President of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema, praised both Rev. Dr. Njini and the Nkwen Baptist Church congregation for their mutual commitment throughout nearly two decades of ministry together. He noted that while every pastorate experiences challenges, the church and its pastor had chosen to journey together in faith, resulting in a ministry worthy of celebration.
Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema shares a special moment with Rev Njini Edward
Turning to those who will continue the work, he observed that Rev. Dr. Njini Edward leaves behind "big shoes to fill" and urged church leaders and ministers to seek God's guidance as they build on the foundation laid by the retiring pastor. On behalf of the CBC Central Administration, Rev. Dr. Teke John congratulated Rev. Dr. Njini for what he described as faithful and dedicated service to God and the Convention.
As prayers were offered and final tributes paid, the congregation rose in appreciation of a pastor whose ministry had touched lives, shaped faith and strengthened institutions.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltpvoices web
Tel: +237 694 71 85 77
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