The city of Jos, Nigeria, recently celebrated a milestone with the completion of its first PathwayConnect program. The program is offered by Brigham Young University-Pathway Worldwide (BYU-PW). This achievement highlights the community’s dedication to education and faith, as participants were encouraged to embrace lifelong learning and deepen their discipleship in Jesus Christ.
Students who completed their BYU-PW coursework show their certificates on 11 January, 2025.
Students who completed their BYU-PW coursework show their certificates on 11 January, 2025.© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.The event was made possible through the collaboration of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, Seminaries and Institutes of Religion (S&I), and BYU-PW. For over 30 years, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been a beacon of hope in Jos, using education and spiritual teachings to draw individuals closer to Christ.
Linda Opuene, Manager of the Family Services unit of The Church's Welfare and Self-Reliance Department in Nigeria, inspired the students with her personal journey, urging them to prioritize spiritual growth and resilience by following the Savior’s teachings. Chidiebere Ibeakuzie, Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager for Nigeria, reinforced the vital role of education in achieving self-reliance, encouraging students to remember that “efforts make miracles happen.” He also highlighted the Church’s welfare programs, such as the Benson Scholarship and Perpetual Education Fund, which support education.
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President Mbora Etim, a counselor in the Nigeria Abuja Mission Presidency, delivered a message emphasizing the importance of quality education as a means to serve God and community. He stressed the integration of religious and secular learning as a key to unlocking greater opportunities. Efita Effiom, a PathwayConnect completer from Jos expressed gratitude to The Church for the blessing of BYU-Pathway and how the program has changed his life for good. In the same vein, Favour Valentine from Bauchi, speaking for her three siblings that completed the program with her, indicated that the knowledge she gained from BYU-Pathway is immeasurable and will motivate her to complete her degree program.
Victor B. Ukorebi, Senior International Area Manager and BYU-Pathway Team Lead for Africa, invited all the students to trust in the Lord and embrace the values of being Teachable, Resourceful, United, Serving, and Trusting (TRUST). He described TRUST as fundamental to living the gospel and becoming true disciples of Jesus Christ, reminding attendees of the transformative power of education and its ability to instill integrity, leadership, and service.
President Joseph Eduok, the Jos Nigeria Stake President, commended the Church for providing accessible, affordable, and internationally recognized higher education. He urged the students to “go forth and serve” in their homes, congregations, and communities, applying the knowledge and values they have gained to bless others.
The PathwayConnect completion ceremony in Jos not only celebrated the completers’ accomplishments but also set a precedent for future cohorts. It stands as a testament to the power of education combined with faith in transforming lives and communities.