Latter-day Saints Commissions Educational Centre in Lagos
Sunday Ehigiator
As part of its commitment to expanding educational opportunities in Nigeria, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has commissioned the Brigham Young University (BYU)-Pathway Worldwide Centre in Lagos.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, the President of BYU-Pathway Worldwide, Brian Ashton, highlighted the institution’s mission to provide accessible and high-quality education. He described the programme as an affordable initiative designed to empower individuals and improve lives.
“Our objective is to equip people with knowledge and skills that will enable them to secure jobs and attain self-reliance,” Ashton stated. “Through education, they can contribute meaningfully to their families and the wider community.”
BYU-Pathway Worldwide offers students in Nigeria the opportunity to enrol at Brigham Young University, USA, and pursue their studies online. While enrolled, students can access remote job opportunities to support themselves financially.
Ashton added that BYU-Pathway Worldwide, a global higher education initiative open to all qualified individuals, regardless of religious affiliation, provides students with the opportunity to obtain certificates and degrees in diverse fields, including business, health, and technology.
“BYU-Pathway Worldwide collaborates with Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho) to offer online degree programmes. We also provide mentorship, career counselling, and regular virtual gatherings, fostering a supportive academic environment for our students.”
Dedicating the centre, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles commended Nigerians and Africans for their resilience and dedication to education. He urged students to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the centre.
“Through this programme, we will nurture future leaders equipped with knowledge and wisdom. It is a privilege to inaugurate this initiative here in Lagos,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Elder Adeyinka Ojediran of the church’s Africa West Area Presidency reiterated the church’s commitment to education. He emphasised the institution’s role in preparing young people for leadership by equipping them with essential skills and knowledge.
“The church is deeply invested in the education and development of the rising generation. We encourage young people to seize this opportunity and build a solid academic foundation,” he said.
The dedication ceremony was attended by church leaders, including Elder Clark Gilbert, J.D. Griffith, Vice President of Administration; Elder Christian Chigbundu of the Area Seventy; Elder Olukani of Nigeria Aba Temple; and President Sunday Oyedeji of the Nigeria Egbeda Stake.
Also present were notable dignitaries such as Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, MD/Editor-In-Chief of The Sun Newspaper; former Enugu State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; and Prof. Oby Lilian Ofogbu, a member of the House of Representatives representing Awka North/South Federal Constituency, among others.
