British Council Celebrates 80 Years of Impact in Nigeria with Theme: “Amplifying the Voices of the Future”
By People’s Voice Nigeria | News
The British Council recently celebrated its 80th anniversary in Nigeria with a significant event on November 7, 2024, at its Ikoyi office in Lagos. The event brought together over 100 guests, including partners, beneficiaries, staff, and representatives from both the public and private sectors, to honor the organization’s longstanding contributions to Nigeria’s educational and cultural landscape. The celebration was themed “Amplifying the Voices of the Future,” underscoring the British Council’s commitment to fostering positive change.
Chilufya Besa, Acting Country Director of the British Council, welcomed the attendees with reflections on the organization’s enduring support for Nigerian communities and youth. He noted, “The British Council in Nigeria has played a pivotal role in building connections, empowering communities, and creating educational and cultural exchange pathways that have profoundly impacted many lives. We take pride in the numerous young people who have gained employment, started businesses, created jobs, and become agents of change through British Council-led initiatives.”
L-R: General Counsel and Company, Secretary British Council Nigeria, Busayo Augusto; Regional Lead Creative Economy, SSA/ Head of Arts, British Council Nigeria; Brenda Fashugba; Acting Country Director, British Council Nigeria, Chilufya Besa; Representing The Deputy High Commissioner, Deputy Head of Missions Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Simon Field and Regional Head of Cultural Engagement Marketing, British Council, Sub-Saharan Arica, Edemekong Uyoh at the celebration of the 80th Anniversary of British Council Nigeria at their office in Ikoyi, Lagos, on November 7, 2024.
Simon Field, Deputy Head of Mission at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), represented the Deputy High Commissioner and elaborated on the celebration’s theme in his opening remarks. He said, “Amplifying the Voices of the Future” is especially meaningful for our 80th anniversary in Nigeria, as it highlights our dedication to empowering young people—Nigeria’s future leaders, creators, and innovators. We remain committed to fostering deeper connections, creating opportunities for young people, and building a future that respects cultural heritage while embracing innovation and inclusivity.”
The event featured two enlightening fireside chats, focusing on the impact and potential of youth empowerment in Nigeria. The first discussion, titled “Unlocking the Economic Potential of Young People Now and in the Future,” was led by Brenda Fashugba, Regional Lead for Creative Economy, SSA, and Head of Arts Nigeria at the British Council. This session explored strategies to enhance youth economic engagement and equip young Nigerians for future success. The second conversation, “Enhancing Youth Voices in Delivering Effective and Sustainable Change,” was moderated by Edemekong Uyoh, Regional Head of Marketing, Cultural Engagement, SSA at the British Council. It emphasized the importance of including youth perspectives in efforts to achieve sustainable development.
Adding to the evening’s inspiring atmosphere were performances by spoken word artists Kehinde Adollo and King David Ayo-Loto, whose powerful pieces reflected on the theme and celebrated the British Council’s 80 years in Nigeria. A live painting session by renowned artist Haneefah Adam also captivated attendees. Her artwork, presented to Acting Country Director Chilufya Besa, served as a commemorative gift, symbolizing the British Council’s lasting impact.
The anniversary celebration reaffirmed the British Council’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians and amplifying their voices for the future. As the organization looks ahead to its next chapter, it remains dedicated to building impactful partnerships, fostering educational opportunities, and strengthening cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria.
