LAGOS, February 12, 2024 – In a groundbreaking move, the UK Minister for Business and Trade, Kemi Badenoch, made an impactful visit today to the inaugural British independent school in West Africa, Charterhouse School.
This visit not only signifies a pivotal moment in bilateral relations but also underscores the UK government’s commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s quest for top-notch education within its borders.
Embarking on a comprehensive tour of the new campus located in Lekki Ajah, Lagos, Minister Badenoch was accompanied by the esteemed Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Girls Education, Helen Grant.
This initiative follows recent discussions between the UK and Nigeria, resulting in the removal of restrictions to Transnational Education (TNE) investment in Nigeria, a substantial £50 million commitment that facilitates collaborations between UK Higher Education institutions and their Nigerian counterparts.
The Charterhouse School project, a beacon of this burgeoning collaboration, aims to offer a robust academic curriculum complemented by state-of-the-art day and boarding facilities. With a keen focus on fostering holistic development, the school will provide a rich tapestry of intra and extra-curricular activities, encompassing sports, arts, and science.
Set to welcome its first cohort of primary and secondary students from Nigeria and beyond in September 2024, Charterhouse School aspires to set new standards in education on the African continent.
Minister Kemi Badenoch expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It’s brilliant to witness the progress of the construction work at the Charterhouse site—the first UK independent school in West Africa. The UK education system is rightly renowned around the world, and I hope the school will deliver a world-class learning experience to many students who choose to study here in Nigeria.”
John Todd, the Head/Director of Education at Charterhouse School, echoed the sentiment of pride and commitment, saying, “We are honored to welcome the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade to Charterhouse Lagos as we showcase the amazing facilities we are building. As Nigeria’s first British independent school, we are proud of our British heritage through our partnership with Charterhouse UK and reaffirm our commitment to delivering world-class education in Nigeria. We express our gratitude to the UK government through the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos for their unwavering support over the past year.”
Beyond the educational landscape, Minister Badenoch’s visit extends to crucial meetings with key businesses, including Standard Chartered Bank, Avanti Satellite Communications, IHS Towers, and the British International Investment (BII). These discussions are poised to explore trade and investment opportunities, fostering a strengthened economic partnership between the UK and Nigeria.
As Charterhouse School takes its place in the educational tapestry of West Africa, this visit serves as a testament to the transformative power of international collaboration and the shared commitment to shaping a brighter future through education.
