Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has inaugurated Charterhouse Lagos, a $150 million world-class British independent school in Lekki, marking a new era in Nigeria’s education sector.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday officially inaugurated Charterhouse Lagos Primary School and laid the foundation stone for its secondary school in Ogombo, Lekki. The $150 million project marks the debut of a British independent school in Nigeria and West Africa, aiming to set new educational benchmarks in the region.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the development as a transformative milestone in the state’s educational landscape. He emphasized that the school’s curriculum would blend the British national curriculum with Nigerian and African studies, ensuring students are globally competitive while staying connected to their cultural roots.
Charterhouse Lagos, a sister institution to Charterhouse UK, is designed to provide elite education on a sprawling 70-hectare campus in Lekki. According to Sanwo-Olu, the establishment of such a prestigious school in Lagos reflects the city’s rising status as a hub of innovation and investment.
For decades, Nigerian families have faced the heart-wrenching challenge of sending their children abroad for quality education. Today, Charterhouse Lagos disrupts that narrative by offering the same global standard of learning right here in Lekki. He added that the school would also contribute to economic growth, as tuition fees that would have been spent overseas will now be retained within Nigeria. The governor also noted that the institution could attract international students, reversing the “japa” trend and encouraging “japada” (return migration).
The launch event included a tour of the school’s facilities, showcasing modern classrooms, a music studio, and sports facilities. Leading the tour, the Director of Education at Charterhouse, John Todd, described the opening as a significant milestone for the school and the country. No Nigerian family needs to travel overseas for a world-class education anymore. Charterhouse Lagos provides a globally recognized British Independent School experience right here in Lagos.
He further highlighted the partnership between the public and private sectors, praising the Lagos State Government’s support in bringing the project to life.
The event was attended by several notable dignitaries, including Oba Abiodun Ogunbo, Ologombo of Ogombo Kingdom; Angela Enuwa, Chairman, PUNCH Nigeria Limited; Wunmi Tunde-Obe, Executive Director, PUNCH Nigeria Limited; Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development; and Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment.
Speaking at the event, Angela Enuwa expressed admiration for the school’s high standards, stating that Charterhouse UK has set a global benchmark, and bringing that excellence to Lagos is a game-changer for education in Nigeria.
Similarly, Wunmi Tunde-Obe noted that while some have questioned the cost of studying at Charterhouse Lagos, a visit to the campus quickly justifies its value. Many ask why it’s so expensive, but once you step into the environment, you understand the level of quality being offered. This is a groundbreaking investment in Nigeria’s future.
She further emphasized that the school’s presence would boost Nigeria’s economy, attracting students from across Africa and beyond.
Following the inauguration of the primary school, attendees proceeded to the groundbreaking ceremony for the secondary school, which is expected to be completed later this year.
The secondary school will offer a full boarding experience, providing students with world-class learning, modern dormitories, and leadership development programs.
John Todd reiterated the school’s mission to nurture future leaders who will contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness. The excellence that we have achieved here today proves that in Lagos State, anything is possible.
Charterhouse Lagos
With the launch of Charterhouse Lagos, the state has taken a major step forward in its education sector, providing an alternative to expensive foreign schooling and raising the bar for private education in Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism that the institution would inspire other world-class educational investments, reinforcing Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s leading center for learning and innovation.
As the city continues to attract global partnerships, Charterhouse Lagos serves as a symbol of confidence in Nigeria’s education system, offering a premium, homegrown alternative for families seeking the best education for their children.
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