Emmanuel Ubandoma, MUSA2025-09-242025-09-242025-12Kate TurabiaP.hDhttps://repository.lcu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/1097This study investigates the implementation of Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) cooperative programs among Local Baptist Churches (LBC) within the Ibadan Baptist Conference, Nigeria. It highlights a pressing issue of non-compliance by local churches, which undermines the NBC's ability to foster unity and coordinate essential initiatives such as pastoral care, evangelism, and community development. Non-compliance with cooperative programs weakens the Convention's collective influence, limiting its ability to effectively serve and meet the needs of its members. The purpose of the study is to investigate the implementation of NBC’s cooperative programmes among LBC churches in Ibadan Baptist Conference. The study employs a survey research design targeting a population of 200 respondents, including church members, pastors, treasurers, secretaries, social and mission coordinators, and deacons. Structured questionnaires, consisting mainly of closed-ended questions, were administered to collect quantitative data on the extent of program implementation, the obstacles encountered, and the benefits anticipated by participants. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, such as pastors and deacons, to collect qualitative insights. These interviews provided a platform for discussing underlying issues that may not be easily captured in quantitative surveys. This mixed-methods approach enhanced the study’s validity and reliability by offering both statistical data from surveys and detailed, contextual analysis from interviews. Findings from the study revealed several core issues contributing to non- compliance with the cooperative program. Financial constraints emerged as a major barrier, as many local churches lack sufficient funds to contribute to the NBC’s programs. This is compounded by limited income sources, economic challenges within the community, and an overall lack of financial sustainability among some congregations. Communication gaps were also identified, indicating that not all churches fully understand the goals or benefits of the cooperative program. Poor dissemination of information often leads to misunderstandings or lack of awareness about the program’s purpose, reducing motivation to participate. The study concludes that improving communication and transparency between the NBC and local churches is essential for enhancing participation in the cooperative program. Regular communication, such as through conferences, seminars, or newsletters, could help to clarify the program’s goals and create a sense of shared purpose among church members. Financial support from the NBC, either through grants, subsidies, or resource-sharing programs, could alleviate the financial burden on smaller churches, enabling them to contribute more readily to collective efforts. The study also highlights the importance of fostering cooperation and a unified vision by encouraging regular visitations by NBC officials to local churches. These visitations would help establish trust, reinforce the benefits of the cooperative program, and provide opportunities for resolving conflicts or miscommunications. The study recommends that the NBC adopt a more collaborative approach, engaging local churches as partners rather than passive participants. By actively involving church leaders in the decision-making processes and addressing financial and communicative barriers, the NBC can build stronger partnerships within the Baptist community. Keywords: Cooperative Programme, Nigeria Baptist Convention, Local Churches, Ibadan Baptist Conference Word Count: 480enCooperative ProgrammeNigeria Baptist ConventionLocal ChurchesIbadan Baptist ConferenceThesis