British Council and Cambridge International Honor 156 Top Students in Nigeria
The British Council and Cambridge International Education have acknowledged 156 exceptional learners and schools throughout Nigeria for their impressive achievements in the June and November 2025 Cambridge exam series. This recognition underscores a significant milestone in Nigeria’s academic landscape.
Among the award winners, 16 students were recognized as ‘top of the world’ in various Cambridge IGCSE subjects, further enhancing Nigeria’s reputation for educational excellence on a global scale. A comprehensive overview of the awards reveals that 51 schools received accolades, while seven individuals earned first-place honors across multiple subjects. In addition, 77 students were celebrated as ‘top in the country.’
The prestigious ‘Top in the World’ Cambridge IGCSE award was bestowed upon 16 learners, demonstrating their outstanding capabilities in subjects that are often less commonly studied in Nigeria. Furthermore, 56 Outstanding Achievement Awards were given to students who excelled in subjects that are typically not part of the standard curriculum.
Addressing journalists at the 2026 British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learners Awards (BROCLA) ceremony in Lagos, Eitayo Akanji, Director of Examinations at the British Council Nigeria, reiterated the country’s commitment to strengthening its position in international education. He commended Nigerian students for their ability to compete on the global stage, highlighting their recognition as accomplished scholars.
Akanji remarked that the achievements of the awardees affirm their capacity to perform at a global level. He elaborated that these awards celebrate candidates who have attained exceptional results in the Cambridge International Examinations, which are undertaken by over one million students across more than 100 countries. He attributed the students’ success to the ongoing collaboration among the British Council, school leaders, teachers, and students across 400 partner schools in Nigeria.
The British Council’s ongoing efforts to enhance teacher development, school improvement, and curriculum expertise were emphasized by Akanji, who noted that the awards ceremony culminated years of teamwork and partnership. He articulated that the recognition is not merely a coincidence but the result of careful preparation and dedication.
In a discussion with the media, Juan Visser, Director of Sub-Saharan Africa at Cambridge International Education, underscored the transformative power of quality education. He praised the students for excelling in globally standardized examinations and encouraged them to appreciate the support of their parents and teachers. Visser highlighted that Cambridge exams are administered in over 160 countries under consistent standards, boosting the global competitiveness of the students’ achievements.
Calling for Nigerian schools to prioritize the development of future-ready skills and international collaboration, Donna McGowan, Country Director of the British Council in Nigeria, emphasized that mere academic excellence is insufficient. She advocated for equipping learners with necessary competencies for success in a rapidly changing world, noting that educational institutions embracing innovation and partnerships will be better prepared to nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
McGowan stated that educational excellence must extend beyond exam results to include the cultivation of skills and attitudes essential for success in the 21st century. She pressed for schools to develop creative problem solvers, effective communicators, and responsible digital citizens who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Johnny Baxter of the British High Commission in Nigeria also weighed in, recognizing the vital role of education and thanking the council for providing a platform to celebrate excellence. He pointed out that the education landscape is evolving with advancements in artificial intelligence and digital literacy, expressing the necessity of nurturing confidence in students to prepare them for future opportunities.
