The British Council continued the celebration of its 80th anniversary for the second time in Nigeria with a commemorative event held on December 9, 2024, at its Abuja office, following the launch event earlier an earlier celebration in Lagos.
The event brought together stakeholders, partners, and distinguished guests to reflect on eight decades of impactful contributions to Nigeria’s educational and cultural landscape.
Under the theme “Amplifying the Voices of the Future,” the celebration highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful change and building lasting partnerships.
In his welcome address, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, emphasized the transformative potential of the co-production agreement recently signed between the two nations.
He remarked, “The co-production agreement is expected to catalyze mutual economic growth, generate jobs, and increase investments across key sectors, including trade, agriculture, technology, and the creative economy.” Highlighting the global influence of Nigeria’s cultural exports, particularly Afrobeats music, Montgomery praised the country’s burgeoning soft power on the world stage.
Chilufya Besa, Acting Country Director of the British Council, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of empowering Nigeria’s youth, who represent nearly 70% of the population under the age of 30.
He noted; “The 80th-anniversary theme, ‘Amplifying the Voices of the Future,’ underscores our commitment to fostering inclusivity, building capacity, and providing access to global professional development opportunities.” Besa’s address, delivered on his behalf by Chikodi Onyemerela, Director of Programmes and Chairman of the Board of Directors, British Council Nigeria, reiterated the organization’s role as a catalyst for trust-building and opportunity creation across education and the creative sector.
The event underscored the enduring partnership between the UK and Nigeria, a relationship that began with the establishment of the British Council’s first library office in Lagos in 1944. Over the years, this collaboration has fostered initiatives such as exchange programs between Nigerian and UK universities, further solidifying educational ties and creating opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive on a global stage.
Speaking on the broader implications of the partnership, Montgomery added, “This co-production agreement will enable professionals in the film industries of both countries to create content for domestic and international audiences. It represents a significant step in strengthening the economic links between our nations.”
The anniversary celebration served as a testament to the British Council’s dedication to empowering young Nigerians and amplifying their voices for a brighter future. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, it reaffirms its commitment to creating impactful partnerships, fostering educational opportunities, and strengthening cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria.
