Building Knowledge
The Birth of CMS Bookshop
CMS established one of Nigeria's earliest book distribution centres — supplying Bibles, textbooks, hymn books, and stationery. The bookshop became part of Nigeria's educational history.
Our History
157 Years of Serving Humanity Through Living and Learning
Since 1869, CSS Holdings has remained committed to improving lives through education, property, and purpose-driven enterprise.
Today, CSS Holdings proudly oversees CSS Bookshops and CSS Properties, continuing a legacy built on trust, service, and integrity.
Founded on Purpose
A Legacy Begins
The origins of CSS Holdings trace back to the Church Missionary Society (CMS), whose mission extended beyond evangelism to education, literacy, and community development across Nigeria.
Recognising that education was essential to national progress, CMS established institutions that provided books, learning materials, and educational resources for schools, churches, and communities throughout the country.
Growing With Nigeria
Expanding Our Reach
Operations expanded to serve schools, universities, churches, government institutions, libraries, families, and individual learners across the nation.
A New Chapter
From CMS to CSS
The transition from CMS Bookshop to CSS Bookshops reflected a broader vision—one that embraced both faith and education while preparing the organization for future growth.
Although the name changed, the mission remained constant: to provide trusted educational resources while serving generations of learners across Nigeria.
The company later became CSS Bookshops Limited, strengthening its corporate structure and positioning itself for long-term sustainability.
Beyond Books
Expanding Into New Opportunities
With decades of experience, CSS began expanding beyond traditional bookselling into complementary services. Today, CSS Holdings brings together businesses focused on:
CSS Bookshops
Educational resources, publishing, institutional book supply, digital learning, and literacy development.
Learn More ›CSS Properties
Managing residential, commercial, and institutional properties while delivering professional facilities management and property development services.
Learn More ›"For decades, parents purchased books for their children from CSS Bookshops — and those children returned years later as parents, educators, and community leaders."
Our Journey
157 Years of Milestones
The Foundation
Foundations of the CSS legacy established through the educational and community work of the Church Missionary Society.
Educational Expansion
Expansion of educational publishing and book distribution to schools, churches, and institutions across Nigeria.
A Trusted Institution
CMS Bookshop became one of Nigeria's most recognised and trusted suppliers of books and educational materials.
CSS Bookshops Limited
Transition to CSS Bookshops Limited, strengthening governance and positioning for long-term growth.
CSS Properties
Development of CSS Properties to manage and grow the organisation's real estate assets and facilities.
CSS Holdings
CSS Holdings oversees businesses dedicated to education, publishing, property management, and digital transformation.
Looking Ahead
Relevance Built on 157 Years of Trust
Our history is not simply about longevity — it is about relevance. As Nigeria continues to grow, CSS Holdings remains committed to evolving while staying true to our values.
- Learning is more accessible.
- Communities are better served.
- Properties are professionally managed.
- Technology expands opportunity.
- Trust continues to define every service we provide.