On November 7, 2024, the British Council celebrated its 80th anniversary in Nigeria with a celebratory event in its Ikoyi office in Lagos, marking a landmark milestone.
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To commemorate eight decades of the British Council’s contributions to Nigeria’s educational and cultural landscape, more than 100 visitors, partners, beneficiaries, employees, and partners from the public and commercial sectors came together. Under the theme “Amplifying the Voices of the Future,” the event highlighted the organization’s commitment to promoting meaningful change.
The British Council’s Acting Country Director, Chilufya Besa, gave a welcome speech in which he discussed the organization’s history of assisting Nigerian communities and young people. “In Nigeria, the British Council has been at the forefront of building relationships, empowering communities, and establishing educational and cultural exchange pathways that have shaped countless lives,” he said.
“We are proud of the innumerable young people who have benefited from British Council-led programs by becoming employable, entrepreneurs, job creators, and change agents in their communities,” he continued.
“Amplifying the Voices of the Future is especially fitting for our 80th anniversary in Nigeria, as it indicates our commitment to empowering young people, who are Nigeria’s future leaders, creators, and innovators,” said Simon Field, Deputy Head of Mission, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), speaking on behalf of the Deputy High Commissioner, in his opening remarks.
“We are still dedicated to developing stronger relationships, giving youth opportunities, and constructing a future that honors cultural heritage while welcoming innovation and inclusivity,” he added. Two fireside chats on the effects and prospects of youth empowerment in Nigeria were part of the event.
Brenda Fashugba, the Head of Arts Nigeria at the British Council and the Regional Lead for Creative Economy, SSA, led the first conversation, which was centered on “Unlocking the Economic Potential of Young People Now and in the Future.” This thought-provoking seminar looks at ways to increase youth economic engagement and prepare young Nigerians for success in the future.
Edemekong Uyoh, Regional Head of Marketing, Cultural Engagement, SSA at the British Council, moderated the second discussion, which was centered on “Enhancing Youth Voices in Delivering Effective and Sustainable Change.” It highlighted the significance of youth perspectives in attaining sustainable development.
Spoken word poets Kehinde Adollo and King David Ayo-Loto contributed to the evening’s motivational ambiance with their stirring speeches that explored the theme and the effects of the British Council’s 80-year presence in Nigeria. Celebrated artist Haneefah Adam also painted live at the ceremony, and Acting Country Director Chilufya Besa received his artwork as a memento.
The British Council’s commitment to uplifting young Nigerians and elevating their voices for the future is highlighted by the anniversary celebration. The British Council underlines its dedication to establishing meaningful collaborations, promoting educational opportunities, and fortifying cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria as it embarks on the next chapter.
Concerning the British Council The UK’s overseas agency for educational opportunities and cultural exchanges is called the British Council. Since 1944, the organization has operated in Nigeria, supporting community development, cultural exchange, and education through a variety of partnerships and programs.
