In Nigeria, local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been leading by example through their pursuit of education via BYU-Pathway Worldwide. An increasing number of bishops, stake presidents, Area Seventies, and their families have enrolled in the program, which has inspired members throughout Nigeria to pursue higher education while strengthening their faith.
Enrollment in the program has seen substantial growth, rising from fewer than 3,000 students in 2023 to more than 20,000 in 2026. Recently, stake presidents, Area Seventies, and their wives met at the BYU-Pathway Global Education Center in Lagos to discuss how their personal participation contributed to this growth.
Elder Asuquo Udobong, an Area Seventy and BYU-Pathway student, noted that many members followed his example when he served as a bishop. Similarly, Elder Sunday Oyedeji, also an Area Seventy and student, stated that he and his wife have consistently encouraged members to participate in the program.
The influence of these leaders extends to their families. Wole Oyedeji, a member of the Ikeja Lagos Stake presidency, is enrolled in the program alongside his wife and four daughters. His daughter, Jumoke, is currently completing an Entrepreneurship Certificate and stated that the program has changed her perspective on running her food business.
Uwem Edem, manager of the BYU-Pathway Global Education Center in Lagos, expressed gratitude for the support of local Church leaders who use the center for their own studies. Victor Ukorebi, Senior International Area Manager for Africa and president of the Lagos Nigeria, Lekki Stake, said the participation of leaders and families is helping establish a culture where education and discipleship go hand-in-hand.
With a projected enrollment of 30,000 BYU-Pathway students in Nigeria this year, these leaders are providing members—specifically young single adults and returned missionaries—with access to affordable and spiritually based education.
