Brief History of Saints Simon and Jude Seminary

Saints Simon and Jude Seminary, popularly known as SS Simon & Jude Kuje, is an all-boys Catholic minor seminary located in Kuchiako, Kuje Area Council, Abuja. It is recognized as the official Catholic Minor Seminary in Abuja, serving as a foundation for future priests and responsible Christian leaders.

Established in August 1984 by His Eminence, the late Dominic Cardinal Ekandem, the seminary was envisioned as a nurturing ground for young men aspiring to the priesthood. The pioneer rector, the late Rev. Fr. Dr. Willy Ojukwu, played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s early years and ensuring its commitment to excellence in academics and spiritual formation.

 

Vision and Motto

Badge of Saints Simon and Jude Seminary kuje

The seminary’s vision is to be a befitting training ground for future priests, good Christians, and responsible citizens. Its motto, “In Cruce Salus”, translates to “In the Cross is our Salvation”, emphasizing the significance of faith and devotion in the lives of its students.

40th Anniversary Celebration

At the 40th Anniversay of Saints Simon and Jude Seminary

In 2024, Saints Simon and Jude Seminary celebrated its 40th anniversary. This milestone event was attended by numerous alumni, including ordained priests from within and outside Abuja who once walked its halls. The celebration was a testament to the seminary’s lasting impact on the Catholic community and its role in shaping spiritual leaders.

Academic Excellence and Programs

The seminary offers a comprehensive academic curriculum from JSS1 to SS3, ensuring that students receive quality education while being spiritually nurtured. It participates in major national examinations, including:

  • West African Examinations Council (WAEC – SSCE)
  • National Examinations Council (NECO)
  • Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)

Facilities and Infrastructure

Saints Simon and Jude Seminary boasts well-equipped facilities that support both academic and spiritual growth. Some of the notable structures within the school compound include:

Academic and Administrative Buildings

  • Administrative Block
  • Block of Classrooms
  • Library
  • Science & Art Laboratories

Religious and Residential Facilities

  • School Chapel
  • Rectory (residence for priests)
  • Student Hostels
  • Refectory (dining hall)
  • Clinic
  • Block of Staff Quarters
  • Convent (residence for reverend sisters)

Religious Memorabilia

  • Statue of Saints Simon and Jude
  • Almighty Cross
  • Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary
  • Cemetery (resting place for priests and religious figures)

Saints Simon and Jude Seminary Football field

Sporting Facilities

  • Standard Football Pitch
  • Volleyball Court
  • Basketball Court
  • Tennis Court
  • Handball Court
  • Badminton Court

School Fees and Academic Calendar

The school fee range per term is between N150,000 to N250,000 per ward. The academic session begins in September and concludes in July of the following year.

Feast Day Celebration

The seminary observes its annual feast day on October 28th, commemorating Saints Simon and Jude, the patron saints of the institution.

Why Choose Saints Simon and Jude Seminary for Your Son?

For parents who envision their sons becoming Catholic priests, Saints Simon and Jude Seminary offers the ideal environment for nurturing their calling. Over the years, many students from the seminary have progressed to major seminaries and theological institutions both within and outside Nigeria. Upon completing their formation, they are ordained as deacons and later as priests, serving the Church with dedication.

A cross section of priests at Badge of Saints Simon and Jude Seminary kuje

It has become a tradition that every year, during priestly ordinations in the Archdiocese of Abuja, a significant number of the newly ordained priests are alumni of Saints Simon and Jude Seminary, Kuje. This legacy of excellence in spiritual and academic training makes the seminary a top choice for Catholic families.

Conclusion

Saints Simon and Jude Seminary stands as a beacon of spiritual and academic excellence. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to forming future priests and responsible Christian leaders, it continues to be a prestigious institution in Abuja. If you desire a holistic education grounded in faith, discipline, and knowledge for your son, this seminary is the ideal choice.

Also checkout Veritas University Abuja, Another Catholic institution of higher learning.