Over 285 students in Benin City, Nigeria, celebrated a significant achievement on September 14, 2024, as they received their PathwayConnect certificates after months of dedicated study. These certificates, awarded through the BYU-Pathway Worldwide program, represent the completion of 14-15 credit hours in essential coursework, providing valuable skills in areas such as business, technology, health, and communication. Beyond the academic training, these courses also included religious instruction, helping students deepen their faith and come closer to God.
During the graduation ceremony, Elder Odion Oide, an Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presided and emphasized the transformative power of education. He encouraged the graduates to continue seeking knowledge throughout their lives. Brother Victor Ukorebi, the International Area Manager for Nigeria and BYU-Pathway Team Lead in Africa, reminded graduates that their education is meant to inspire positive change. President and Sister Baidoo, leaders of the Nigeria Benin City Mission, expressed optimism that returning missionaries would benefit from BYU-Pathway, becoming stronger disciples of Jesus Christ. Professor Kingsley U. Omoyibo from the University of Benin praised the Church’s dedication to promoting quality education and remarked, “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 the BYU-Pathway program was evident in the graduates’ personal stories. Elder Stephen Aghojare, a student studying to become a Hardware Technician, shared how the program helped him grow as a more responsible disciple and better servant to his family and community. His wife, Chika Aghojare, who is pursuing an online degree in Family and Human Services, said, “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 also plays a role in missionary work in Nigeria. Ndidi Gift, who was introduced to the Church through BYU-Pathway, expressed her gratitude for the confidence and opportunities the program gave her. She shared, “With BYU-Pathway, I saw myself as an international star. I received scholarships and support that showed me the Lord wanted me here.”
Elder Romeo I. Egharevba, a service missionary involved with the program, encouraged graduates to view obstacles as opportunities for growth, stating, “Obstacles are part of the journey to success. See them as opportunities in disguise, pushing you to develop new skills.”
The success of the BYU-Pathway program in Nigeria is supported by more than 600 volunteer service missionaries, who dedicate an average of 25 hours each week to mentor and guide the students through their academic and spiritual journey.
