BYU-Pathway Honors Over 285 Students in Benin City, Nigeria

September 14, 2024 was a joyful day for over 285 students in Benin City, Nigeria when, after months of study and work, they received their PathwayConnect certificates. The certificates, awarded through the BYU-Pathways program, acknowledge 14-15 credit hours of educational coursework that provide marketable skills in fields such as business, technology, health, communication, and many others. Besides the foundational academic training they provide, the courses also provide religious instruction that helps students come closer to God.

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Elder Odion Oide, an Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who presided over the ceremony,  highlighted the transformative power of learning and encouraged the graduates to continually seek knowledge and growth, no matter their stage in life. Brother Victor Ukorebi, the International Area Manager for Nigeria and BYU-Pathway Team Lead in Africa, reminded the graduates that their education should inspire positive change. Nigeria Benin City Mission leaders, President and Sister Baidoo,  expressed hope that returning missionaries would benefit from BYU-Pathway and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.  Finally, Professor Kingsley U. Omoyibo, from the University of Benin, praised The Church for its commitment to promoting quality education through BYU-Pathway Worldwide. Addressing the graduates, he stated, "What I see here today will transcend into greatness in the coming years. BYU-Pathway is the gateway to excellence and achievement.”

The impact of BYU-Pathway is reflected in the students' testimonies. Elder Stephen Aghojare, a student in Hardware Technician studies, shared how BYU-Pathway helped him become a more responsible disciple of Jesus Christ and a better servant to his family and community. His wife, Chika Aghojare, an online degree student in Family and Human Services, added, "BYU-Pathway is not just a path, but a pathway in the Lord's way. It has helped me define the path the Lord has set for me."

The program's influence extends to missionary work in Nigeria. Ndidi Gift, introduced to the Church through BYU-Pathway, expressed gratitude for the confidence and opportunities the program brought her. "With BYU-Pathway, I saw myself as an international star. I received scholarships and support that showed me the Lord wanted me here," she shared.

Elder Romeo I. Egharevba, a service missionary working with the program, encouraged the graduates to view challenges as opportunities for growth. "Obstacles are part of the journey to success," he said. "See them as opportunities in disguise, pushing you to develop new skills." 

Operational support for the Nigeria BYU-Pathway students is provided by over 600 volunteer service missionaries who dedicate an average of 25 hours per missionary weekly to guide and mentor students.