International Leadership University (ILU), formally the Nairobi International School of Theology (NIST), was founded in 1980 by Campus Crusade for Christ International (CCCI) as a theological institute dedicated to training pastors and church leaders from across the world. Its original mission was to equip students with biblical knowledge, ministry skills, and spiritual formation, preparing them to serve effectively in churches and Christian organizations globally. Over time, this foundation in theological training expanded, reflecting a broader vision: to develop Christlike, visionary leaders of integrity capable of transforming societies locally and across Africa.
In 2013, NIST officially transitioned to become the International Leadership University, marking a significant milestone in its journey. This change reflected the University’s expanded mandate, moving beyond theological training to include leadership, governance, education, counseling psychology, and professional development, while maintaining its deep commitment to faith, character formation, and societal transformation.
Today, ILU offers academic programs from certificate to PhD levels in Theology and Christian Ministry, Leadership and Governance, and Education and Social Science, that are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). In addition, the University curates professional short courses designed to equip emerging leaders and church ministers with practical skills and knowledge to meet the evolving challenges of society. Students and faculty come from over twenty countries in Africa, as well as Canada and the USA, creating a rich multicultural community that embodies ILU’s global outlook and commitment to holistic leadership formation.
At the heart of ILU is a culture of values-anchored education. Students are mentored not only in professional competence but also in character formation. Weekly chapel services, prayer times, mentorship programs, annual missions and structured community outreach initiatives ensure that learning extends far beyond the classroom.
Here, integrity is lived and celebrated. A notable example is Police Constable Ann Waigwa, who in 2022, returned cash and valuables worth Ksh 2.4 million found at Wilson Airport. In recognition of her exemplary integrity, ILU awarded her a full scholarship to pursue Counseling Psychology, demonstrating that integrity is tangible, honored, and central to the ILU experience.
ILU has also grown as a public thought leader, engaging in research fairs, public lectures, seminars, and media discussions to promote biblical values and ethical leadership. Through these platforms, the University contributes to national conversations on integrity, morality, ethics and leadership, presenting biblical principles as a relevant and transformative force in society. Recognizing the Church as a key partner in societal transformation, ILU works closely with churches and faith-based organizations to build leadership capacity as well as in addressing emerging societal issues.
ILU Kenya is part of a broader pan-African network of accredited universities, colleges, schools, and ministries united by a common mission: to raise leaders of integrity and vision. This network includes the African Centre for Theological Studies (ACTS) in Nigeria, Africa Leadership and Management Academy (ALMA) in Ghana and Zimbabwe, ILU Burundi, and the Institut Facultaire de Théologie Appliquée (IFTA) in Congo. In Kenya, ILU works closely with LIFE Ministry Kenya, its sponsoring ministry, sharing resources, ministry activities, and staff support to advance their shared mission.
In 2007, ILU acquired land in Kitengela, anticipating future growth and compliance with government regulations requiring university headquarters to be on at least 25 acres. This vision is now being realized through the development of the ILU Kitengela Campus, which will serve as the University’s new headquarters. The campus is designed to significantly expand ILU’s reach and impact across Kenya and Africa, incorporating modern teaching, learning, and research facilities, green technology, and community-centered amenities, including a chapel, health facility, primary school, sports centre, and a retreat centre for church leaders.
In 2025, ILU celebrated one of its largest graduations in its recent history, a testament to sustained growth, relevance, and impact.
Therefore, from its founding in 1980 to its present journey, ILU’s story is one of faithfulness, progress, and unwavering commitment to leadership transformation. Our Alumni are ethical leaders, raising standards in government, corporate sector, civil society and in Churches of God. Anchored in its original calling, ILU continues to raise leaders of integrity and vision who will serve God, strengthen the Church, and transform societies for the common good and the glory of God.
