The Hassan Odukale Methodist Theological Institute, located in Zonkwa, was established in June 1995 by the Methodist Church Nigeria with the visionary support of Sir Hassan Odukale. Recognizing the challenges faced by Northern ministerial candidates who had to travel long distances for training, Sir Odukale championed the establishment of the institute to alleviate their hardships. The school officially commenced operations on September 15th, 1995. At its inception, the institute admitted five deaconesses and sixteen sub-pastors who embarked on their journey of theological education under the guidance of the esteemed Very Revd Joseph Kure. Since then, the institute has made significant strides in shaping the future of ministerial leadership. Over the years, it has trained a total of 180 individuals, comprising 39 deaconesses and 141 sub-pastors, all of whom have been awarded certificates in Theology.

Furthermore, the institute has facilitated the graduation of 52 ministers with diplomas in theology, who are actively serving in various capacities. Presently, an additional fifty-two ministers are undergoing training, alongside ten students enrolled in the degree program. Today, the institute proudly celebrates the graduation of full-time ministers, a testament to its commitment to nurturing theological excellence. In pursuit of its mission, the institute has transitioned from its humble beginnings to a permanent site, thanks to the visionary leadership of the then Very Revd Oliver Aba (now Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Abah, JP who was the then Principal of the College), supported by the Odukale family. Through concerted efforts, including fundraising initiatives, the permanent site now boasts modern facilities conducive to learning, including classrooms and hostel accommodations.

Moreover, recognizing the evolving needs of theological education, the institute has undergone significant upgrades. Initially a certificate-awarding institution, it was later elevated to a diploma-awarding institution in 2016/2017, following a recommendation by the Board for Theological Education and approval by Prelate His Eminence Dr Samuel Emeka Kanu Uche. Building upon this progress, the institute achieved another milestone in 2018, attaining status as a degree-awarding institution, with a Master's Program affiliated to Wesley University Ondo. Additionally, the institute offers a Nigeria Certificate in Education program in affiliation with the Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, further expanding its educational offerings and impact in the region.