UK-Nigeria Partnership Spurs $15m Investment In Education With Launch Of Charterhouse Lagos

Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, has praised the collaborative efforts of the UK and Nigerian governments following a significant investment in Nigeria’s education sector, which culminated in the opening of the prestigious Charterhouse Lagos school.

The school is located in the upscale Lekki area of Lagos State and has a sprawling 70-hectare (150-acre) campus. Dr. Montgomery emphasised that the institution is the direct result of the two countries’ strong partnership and is modelled after the renowned Charterhouse UK, which has over 400 years of rich history and tradition.

“This is all made possible by the fact that the UK and Nigerian governments collaborated and reached an agreement last year,” Dr. Montgomery explained.

He cited the “transnational education guidelines,” a framework that allows UK investment in Nigerian educational institutions with the approval of both governments.

He also thanked the Department of Business and Trade at the British High Commission, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, his team, and the Nigerian Universities Commission. “We are about to announce some exciting [partnerships] in the coming months,” he said.

The High Commissioner acknowledged Nigeria’s significant investment in education, as well as Nigerian families’ desire for high-quality educational opportunities.

He expressed confidence in the UK’s “comparative advantage” and the role of education in the UK-Nigeria relationship, citing shared language, values, and interests.

Dr. Montgomery expressed concern about Nigerian students seeking education abroad, saying, “One of our concerns is that a generation of Nigerian children is going to Britain, and many of them are not returning.

By attending secondary school here, we hope that they will stay and make a difference. And we often refer to this as a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s future.

He emphasised that Charterhouse Lagos provides a high-quality UK private education option in Nigeria.

“The UK is very aware that Nigeria is expanding… and that Nigerians have always valued education for their children. Nigerians want more opportunities for high-quality education in Nigeria.”

He revealed that Charterhouse is the first major British public school to establish a presence in Nigeria, with at least one other deal already signed in Lagos and three more considering similar ventures.

Looking ahead, the High Commissioner expressed excitement about upcoming UK university partnerships that will offer UK-accredited courses in Nigeria.

He clarified that the goal is not to eliminate Nigerian students studying in the UK, but rather to meet the growing demand for high-quality education in Nigeria itself.

John Todd, Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos School, echoed Dr. Montgomery’s sentiments, emphasising the school’s commitment to the holistic education of the Nigerian child while also preserving their roots.

He acknowledged potential negative effects on the UK economy, saying, “But for us, it is good news, and we believe that if these children stay in Nigeria, it will mean a positive difference for Nigeria in the long run.”

Todd emphasised the significant $15 million investment in the school’s “unrivalled” facilities, which outperformed even some universities.

He announced plans for an 800-seat performing arts theatre, which will showcase Nigerian talent and contribute to the arts community.

“We started in Lagos because it is the centre of excellence, commerce, and most likely the place with the highest demand for this level of education. However, keep an eye out because it may be spreading to other areas soon.

Todd also praised the Lagos State government, particularly Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighting their warm welcome and the phenomenal demand for their secondary school program.