By Nana Musa
The University of Leicester Alumni Association has officially inaugurated its Nigerian chapter, calling for stronger alumni-driven initiatives to support nation-building.
The Director of the Future Students Office, Mr Phil Dalby, stated at the inauguration of the alumni in Abuja on Thursday, which drew together graduates, partners, and various stakeholders.
Dalby stated that the launch is part of the university’s centenary commemorations, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the ties between the institution and its growing community of Nigerian graduates.
He further noted that the Nigerian chapter was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in January.
The event celebrated longstanding institutional ties and outlined strategies for leveraging alumni networks to support Nigeria’s broader development agenda.
Dalby commended the Nigerian alumni for their contributions to the university’s global success and their local community impact.
“You enriched the university and continue to excel in business, public service, and your communities as citizens of change,” he said.
He also highlighted Leicester’s heritage as a World War I memorial institution, noting that its guiding motto continues to inspire impactful global engagement.
According to Dalby, recent accolades—including “University of the Year” honors and top UK rankings—reflect Leicester’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence.
He urged the alumni to support a 100-million-euro campaign aimed at advancing the university’s global vision as it enters its second century.
The director added that the Nigerian chapter signals a renewed commitment to strengthening global alumni networks and fostering development-focused collaborations.
In his remarks, the Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Mr Mathew Adepoju, said Leicester instilled the professional ethics that shaped his leadership and problem-solving approach in national assignments.
He urged younger alumni to remain resilient and contribute meaningfully to the country despite infrastructural and systemic challenges.
Adepoju credited his Leicester education with enhancing his opportunities and positioning him for significant career advancement.
The Coordinator of the Alumni and Stakeholders Reception, Dr Zainab Mai-Bornu, underscored the importance of the alumni in sustaining the institution’s reputation and promoting values of integrity, diligence, and service.
“Our alumni remain ambassadors of Leicester’s ideals, demonstrating excellence and responsibility wherever they operate,” she said.
Also speaking, Dr Oluseyi Olanrewaju stressed the importance of leveraging networks for visibility and professional advancement through strategic connections.
He identified mentorship as a key factor in bridging the gap between academia and industry, urging alumni to seek guidance within their respective fields.
Olanrewaju emphasised the need for patience and resilience, noting that active engagement fosters the exchange of ideas and collaborative problem-solving.
He noted that alumni networks build camaraderie and broaden the global perspectives essential for personal and professional growth.
Olanrewaju also called for community-focused interventions, urging alumni to support education and underserved communities through targeted initiatives.
