The Department of Christian Religious Studies (CRS), Kaduna State University (KASU), successfully embarked on a three-day academic excursion to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, from Wednesday, 10th to Friday, 12th September 2025.
The excursion, which involved 31 final-year students and four staff members, Dr. John Ishaku, Dr. Simon J. Majimre, Dr. Esther Umaru, and Apostle Moses Y. Shok was designed to broaden students’ academic and spiritual horizons through exposure to religious institutions, historical sites, and interactive sessions.
On arrival, the team lodged at the ASUU Chalet inside Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja). Activities commenced on Thursday, 11th September, with a visit to the National Ecumenical Centre, also known as the National Christian Centre. The Centre Manager, Mr. E. Yakubu, gave an insightful presentation on the history, architectural significance, and role of the edifice in promoting Christian unity, interdenominational dialogue, and peacebuilding in Nigeria. Students also toured the Centre’s structures, learning their symbolic relevance to Christian teachings.
The team later visited the First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja, the oldest Baptist congregation in the city. They were warmly received by the Senior Minister, Rev. Thomas Takpatore, alongside church officials. The students gained insights into the church’s growth, organisational structure, and commitment to mentorship and service, which served as a source of motivation and inspiration.
The day concluded with a symposium at Yakubu Gowon University, where KASU CRS students interacted with their counterparts on the future of Christian Religious Studies in the 21st century. Alumni of KASU now serving in diverse professions including the Supreme Court and real estate encouraged the students, dispelling fears about career prospects in CRS and inspiring them with real-life success stories.
On Friday, the final day of the excursion, the group visited the National Park and Zoo, Asokoro. A tour guide highlighted the uniqueness of various animal species and connected their behaviours to biblical references, deepening students’ understanding of religious symbolism in creation.
Reflecting on the excursion, the Coordinator, Dr. Simon J. Majimre, described it as “a life-changing experience that exposed students to Christian history, missionary activities, and opportunities beyond the classroom.” He expressed gratitude to the University Management for its support in making the trip a reality.
The students testified that the trip expanded their academic knowledge, strengthened their faith, and inspired them to remain resilient and dedicated in their studies and future endeavours.
Fantastic, kudos to CRS Department. They should keep it up.