A delegation from one of United Kingdom’s leading institutions, Loughborough University recently concluded a visit to Nigeria aimed at expanding academic collaboration and aligning with national development priorities.
During the visit, the team – comprising Prof. Sam Grogan, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student Experience; Prof. Amanda Daley, Professor of Behavioural Medicine; and Florence Mutero, Global Engagement Officer – met with Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, where they engaged in discussions on issues centred around research, innovation, and student development.
At the meeting, the delegation shared insights into Loughborough University’s globally recognised structure and approach, particularly its commitment to training students to solve real-world problems, advancing impactful research, and fostering international partnerships.
“For sustained infrastructure growth, collaboration is not a luxury, it is a necessity,” said Prof. Sam Grogan. “This partnership must be built on mutual learning and shared ambitions. It’s about laying a solid foundation that ensures the future of education and innovation in both countries.”
The discussions covered potential collaboration areas such as STEM research, innovation, climate change, net zero goals, sports, wellbeing, and student experience. The Loughborough University team also announced scholarship opportunities and highlighted their approach to co-creating systemic solutions that align with Nigeria’s vision for education and sustainable development.
In addition to the Ministry visit, the delegation held high-level talks with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), a leading scholarship and capacity-building agency in Nigeria. These engagements reinforced the University’s goal of supporting talent development through inclusive, long-term partnerships.
In her remarks, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad lauded the University’s global impact and openness to collaboration, stating: “I deeply appreciate this visit and commend Loughborough University’s commitment to partnership. Our doors remain open for collaboration, and I look forward to exploring ways we can work together to empower our students and drive sustainable development.”
This visit forms part of Loughborough University’s deepening commitment to Sub- Saharan Africa, where it continues to co-develop research and academic partnerships with local institutions, public sector organisations, and development bodies.
