The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, has praised the partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria that led to the establishment of Charterhouse Lagos, a $150 million private school modeled after the prestigious Charterhouse School in the UK.
Speaking at the NAPTIP Lagos Command Office in Ikeja, Montgomery described the school, located on a sprawling 70-hectare site in Lekki, Lagos, as a testament to the deepening educational and economic ties between both nations.
He highlighted that the project was made possible through the transnational education guidelines agreement signed last year, enabling UK investments in Nigerian education with the support of both governments. “Education remains a cornerstone of the UK-Nigeria relationship, strengthened by our shared language, common values, and mutual interests,” he said.
Montgomery explained that Charterhouse Lagos aims to provide Nigerian students with access to world-class British education at home, addressing concerns over the growing trend of Nigerian youths relocating abroad for schooling. “We hope that by offering this level of education locally, we can help retain Nigerian talent to contribute to the country’s future,” he noted.
He also revealed that several other top British schools and universities are considering partnerships and investments in Nigeria, signaling a shift toward more UK-accredited education opportunities within the country.
On his part, John Todd, Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, emphasized that the school focuses on holistic education, combining academic excellence with facilities that rival top universities. He disclosed that the project includes plans for an 800-seat performing arts theatre, further promoting Nigeria’s creative talents.
“This is a $150 million investment unmatched in Nigeria. Our goal is to help Nigerian children stay connected to their roots while receiving world-class education,” Todd said, adding that Lagos was chosen due to its reputation as Nigeria’s centre of excellence and commerce.
Todd also thanked the Lagos State Government for its support, particularly Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who recently inaugurated the school’s primary section. “The response to our secondary school admissions has been phenomenal, and we look forward to expanding to other parts of Nigeria,” he added.
Montgomery reiterated that while Nigerian students are still welcome in the UK, the focus is now on providing high-quality education options within Nigeria to meet the demands of the country’s growing middle class.
