BYU–Pathway - Inspired by Local Leaders in Nigeria

Across Nigeria, local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are leading by example—not only in their Church service but also in their pursuit of education through BYU–Pathway Worldwide.

An increasing number of bishops, stake presidents, Area Seventies, their counselors, and members of their families, including wives and children, have enrolled in BYU–Pathway. Their participation is inspiring members throughout Nigeria to pursue higher education while strengthening their faith.

For many members, the decision to enroll has been influenced by the example of trusted local leaders. By balancing family, Church responsibilities, work, and education, these leaders demonstrate that lifelong learning is both attainable and worthwhile. Their commitment reinforces the Church's emphasis on education, self-reliance, and discipleship.

Recently, stake presidents, Area Seventies, and their wives gathered at the BYU–Pathway Global Education Center (GEC) in Lagos to discuss how their personal participation had contributed to the remarkable growth of the program in Nigeria. Enrollment has increased from fewer than 3,000 students in 2023 to more than 20,000 in 2026.

Elder Asuquo Udobong, an Area Seventy and BYU–Pathway student, reflected on the influence of leading by example. "When I served as a bishop," he said, "many members followed my example and enrolled in BYU–Pathway. Some would jokingly say, 'If Bishop can do it, I can do it too.'"

Elder Sunday Oyedeji, also an Area Seventy and a student of BYU-Pathway, said he and his wife have consistently encouraged members to participate in BYU–Pathway. Their commitment inspired his wife to serve as a BYU–Pathway service missionary, further extending their efforts to help others access educational opportunities.

The influence of local leaders extends beyond individuals to entire families. Wole Oyedeji, who serves in the Ikeja Lagos Stake presidency, is enrolled in BYU–Pathway alongside his wife and their four daughters. His daughter, Jumoke, is completing an Entrepreneurship Certificate and said the program has transformed the way she approaches her food business.

"My classes have changed my perspective on running a business," she said. "They are helping me develop the skills and confidence to grow and lead my business."

Church leaders have long taught that education is a lifelong pursuit and an essential part of self-reliance. BYU–Pathway Worldwide provides flexible, affordable educational opportunities that help students grow spiritually, academically, and professionally.

Uwem Edem, manager of the BYU–Pathway Global Education Center in Lagos, expressed gratitude for the strong support of local Church leaders, who regularly use the center for their own studies while encouraging members to do the same.

"In Nigeria," he said, "local leaders are demonstrating that the invitation by the Savior, Jesus Christ to 'seek learning, even by study and also by faith' is more than a principle to teach—it is a principle to live."

Victor Ukorebi, Senior International Area Manager for Africa and president of the Lagos Nigeria, Lekki Stake, said the growing participation of Church leaders and their families is helping establish a culture where education and discipleship go hand-in-hand.

"The example of our leaders," he said, "is inspiring others to invest in their future, strengthen their faith, and bless their families and communities through education."

With a projected enrollment of 30,000 BYU-Pathway students in Nigeria this year, these leaders are giving their members—especially young single adults and returned missionaries—the gift of an affordable, accessible, and spiritually based education.