The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted a provisional licence to BYU–Pathway Worldwide, paving the way for the United States-based online higher education institution to operate officially in Nigeria.
The approval marks the end of a six-year application process and is expected to expand access to internationally recognised online degree programmes for thousands of Nigerian students.
Speaking during a media briefing in Ikeja, Lagos, the President of BYU–Pathway Worldwide, Brian K. Ashton, expressed appreciation to the NUC for the approval, describing it as a major milestone in the institution’s mission to make higher education more accessible.
“We are grateful to the NUC for recognising and approving BYU–Pathway Worldwide. We have worked towards this approval for about six years, and we look forward to helping more Nigerians access quality university education,” Ashton said.
Eight Degree Programmes Approved
Ashton disclosed that BYU–Pathway Worldwide currently offers eight bachelor’s degree programmes. Six of the programmes received direct approval from the NUC, while the remaining two are accredited through partner institutions.
Headquartered in Idaho, United States, BYU–Pathway Worldwide collaborates with Ensign College to provide fully online certificate and degree programmes that are recognised internationally.
Affordable Access to American Degrees
Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which owns and operates the institution, described the NUC’s approval as an opportunity to widen access to affordable, high-quality university education for Nigerians, irrespective of their religious background.
Speaking at the event, Elder Christian Chigbundu said the institution combines academic learning with leadership development and practical life skills.
“This institution offers education that helps people grow academically and personally. It is designed to prepare students for success both in their careers and in their communities,” he said.
Also speaking, Elder Victor Ukorebi said students can complete an internationally recognised American bachelor’s degree for approximately ₦420,000, noting that the institution prioritises accessibility rather than profit.
“The quality of education is comparable to what students receive anywhere in the world. Although it is delivered online, it provides quality American education without requiring students to leave Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria Records Highest Enrolment in West Africa
Church officials revealed that BYU–Pathway Worldwide currently serves about 27,000 students across the Africa West Area, with Nigeria accounting for approximately 20,000 enrolments.
They added that thousands of students have completed professional certificate programmes, more than 1,000 students have earned associate degrees, while over 400 students have graduated with bachelor’s degrees through the institution.
According to the officials, the NUC’s approval is expected to remove previous regulatory barriers and allow significantly more Nigerians to enrol in the online programmes.
Expanding Higher Education Opportunities
The approval reflects Nigeria’s growing acceptance of accredited online higher education as a means of expanding access to quality learning, particularly for students seeking flexible and affordable study options.
BYU–Pathway Worldwide offers online education designed to help learners acquire globally recognised qualifications while studying from their home countries, reducing the financial burden associated with international education.
The institution said it remains committed to supporting more Nigerians in acquiring relevant academic qualifications and workplace skills through accessible, technology-driven learning.
