Africa
GOV. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos has praised Westerfield College for establishing a campus in the United Kingdom, expressing hope that it would further strengthen ties between Nigeria and United Kingdom.
Sanwo-Olu spoke at the inauguration of the campus, in Lagos on Thursday evening.
He was represented by the Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mrs Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Sanwo-Olu said that Westerfield College, a post-secondary institution, had consistently demonstrated commitment to excellence, innovation and the transformative power of education.
According to him, from its beginning in Yaba in 2011 to its expansion to Victoria Island and Kano in 2019 as well as Abuja in 2022 and now in U.K, the college has shown dedication to education development.
He expressed confidence that the campus would enrich the academic landscape in the U.K.
“The opening of this iconic campus in the UK reminds us of the boundless possibilities that arise when we invest in knowledge and foster international partnerships.
“This new campus is a bridge connecting cultures, ideas and aspirations.
“It represents a shared vision for a future where education transcends borders and empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to society,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to education development.
The British Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr Jonny Baxter, said the establishment of the campus would strengthen bilateral ties between United Kingdom and Nigeria.
“We want to see trade flourish, driving prosperity, innovation and cooperation.
“Many UK businesses operate successfully in Nigeria across various sectors, including energy, financial services, infrastructure and education.
“However, trade is not just about UK companies coming to Nigeria. That is why today’s event is so significant; it showcases how Nigerian businesses can also expand into the UK,” he said.
Baxter also said that the campus would serve as a bridge connecting cultures, ideas and aspirations.
“It symbolises a shared vision for an education system that transcends borders and empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to societies.
“I am confident that this expansion will not only enrich the academic landscape in the UK but also strengthen our bilateral ties,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of the college, Mr Michael Dosunmu, said that it took four years to achieve the vision of the U.K campus.
He said that the establishment was part of his contributions toward putting Nigeria on the global map with regard to education.
“Our dream of building this school was never about making money but about planting a seed and watching it grow.
`We now have offices in 10 countries, including China and India. Nigeria is important to us, and we are very proud of taking Lagos and Nigeria to the world.
“Our UK campus is set to open in July with a summer programme while full classes will start in September, all in 2025,” he said. (NAN)
7th February, 2025.
C.E.
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