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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has dedicated a new Global Education Center (GEC) in Lagos, Nigeria. Elder D. Todd Christofferson from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles led the dedication ceremony on February 15, 2025. This facility is part of the BYU Pathway Worldwide program and aims to enhance educational opportunities for Nigerians by supporting students in their pursuit of degrees.
The Lagos GEC can accommodate up to 500 students, providing access to resources like electricity, internet, and computers. These facilities are designed to support individual studies rather than function as a traditional school with teachers. The center allows students to earn accredited Bachelor's degrees at reduced costs and offers internships and scholarships through the Pathway program.
Elder Christofferson highlighted the Church's significant financial commitment to education globally, spending over $1 billion annually. He stated that online education is becoming crucial as traditional institutions cannot meet growing demands. "Our interest is learning...for what it qualifies that person to be in life and to contribute," he explained.
Local leaders commended the Church's efforts in improving educational prospects in Nigeria. Madame Cecilia Ezeilo, Former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, encouraged youth to utilize these opportunities for personal and communal benefit.
The dedication was attended by several Church representatives including Elder Alfred Kyungu, Elder Adeyinka Ojediran, Elder Isaac K. Morrison, Elder Michael T. Ringwood, Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, Brian K. Ashton from BYU Pathway Worldwide, Matt Downs, J.D. Griffiths, and Victor Ukorebi.
