200 Students Complete BYU-Pathway in Nigeria

BYU-Pathway Worldwide celebrated 200 students at a completion ceremony held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the BYU-Pathway Global Education Center in Lagos, Nigeria. The event marked a proud and significant milestone for the students, many of whom earned their first academic certificates. It honored their dedication, resilience, and academic excellence as they progressed in their educational journeys.

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Elder Adeyinka Ojediran, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and First Counselor in the Africa West Area Presidency, addressed the students and emphasized learning as an act of faith. He reminded the completers that their achievements are a testament to the transformative power of education. “You have proven that faith-filled learning is powerful,” he said. Referencing President Dallin H. Oaks, Elder Ojediran noted that “education is a sacred duty,” and cited Elder D. Todd Christofferson, who taught that “true knowledge leads us to Christ.” He highlighted how BYU-Pathway Worldwide equips students to become leaders, mentors, and devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Victor Ukorebi, Senior International Area Manager for BYU-Pathway Worldwide, explained that the purpose of a BYU-Pathway education is to prepare students to become disciples who can lead and serve anywhere. He encouraged the completers to use their education to SERVE, emphasizing the principles of Sacrifice, Employment, Repentance, Valiance, and Empathy. “These Christlike attributes,” he said, “will make you a giant among your peers.”

The Honorable Commissioner for the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Lagos State, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, praised The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its contributions to education and humanitarian service. He challenged the students to continue learning beyond the ceremony, reminding them that “Nigeria needs competent people with integrity.” He added that education is not solely about academics, but also about building strong character.

Elder Asuquo Udobong, an Area Seventy and Area Online Director for Seminaries and Institutes, reminded the students of the importance of religious education. Quoting President Russell M. Nelson, he emphasized that all learning—secular or spiritual—is designed to strengthen and uplift individuals, preparing them for greater service. Elder Akingbade Ojo, an Area Seventy and Regional Director for Seminaries and Institutes, reflected on his own experience as a beneficiary of similar learning opportunities. He noted that he, too, “finished well equipped,” and invited the completers to remember the knowledge they have gained and to represent the Savior, Jesus Christ, in their daily lives. “Your knowledge is not only temporal; it is also spiritual,” he emphasized.

Charles Adebayo, Regional Welfare Manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, urged the completers to fully utilize the skills and knowledge they have acquired. “You have been very well equipped through BYU-Pathway Worldwide,” he said. He encouraged them to become problem solvers, work collaboratively, and remain dependable in all their endeavors.

One of the completers, Umunna Amechi Frank, expressed his excitement about completing his program, describing the experience as “truly great.” He shared how the knowledge he gained significantly enhanced his personal development and strengthened his shoe-making business. Building on this foundation, Frank has enrolled in a degree program in Business Management at BYU–Idaho. Similarly, Ojeyinka Precious, a PathwayConnect completer, reflected on her journey as both a service missionary and a student, describing it as a path marked by growth, challenges, and profound learning.

BYU–Pathway Worldwide, a global higher-education organization operated under the guidance of The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers online certificate and degree programs through the Church Educational System (CES). President Russell M. Nelson noted that “BYU-Pathway Worldwide brings an innovative approach to education — one unique to the Church Educational System and to the world.” As noted on the BYU-pathway website, “All courses incorporate teachings from scriptures as well as modern prophets and apostles, helping students increase faith in Jesus Christ.”