The Cambridge Awards recognised 156 learners and schools across Nigeria for exceptional academic performance in the June and November 2025 Cambridge examination series. The International Education Group at Cambridge Press and Assessment organised the event in partnership with the British Council.
Held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, the ceremony brought together school owners, education leaders, teachers, students, parents and private-sector stakeholders. The event celebrated academic excellence while promoting collaboration among schools preparing students for future opportunities.
Nigerian Students Shine on the Global Stage
One of the highlights of the Cambridge Awards was the recognition of 16 students who achieved the prestigious “Top in the World” distinction in various Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) subjects.
Their achievements reinforced Nigeria’s growing reputation for academic excellence in international examinations. Since Cambridge assessments are taken in more than 100 countries, these students competed against thousands of learners worldwide.
A breakdown of the awards revealed that 51 schools received School Awards. In addition, seven learners earned Best Across Subjects Awards.
Furthermore, 77 students secured the “Top in the Country” distinction. Another 56 learners received High Achievement Awards for exceptional performance in subjects that attract fewer candidates in Nigeria.
Cambridge Highlights Importance of Future-Ready Education
Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Cambridge International Education, Juan Visser, described the awards as a valuable platform for recognising outstanding learners.
He noted that Nigerian students sit the same examinations as their counterparts around the world. Therefore, their success demonstrates their ability to compete at the highest level.
“The exams these learners sat are based on global standards. Their success showed they can compete with the best students anywhere in the world,” Visser said.
He also stressed the importance of sustained investment in education. According to him, schools must equip students with skills that remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Visser explained that artificial intelligence continues to reshape workplaces and industries. However, he said subject knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking and self-management remain essential for long-term success.
British Council Reaffirms Commitment to Education
Country Director of the British Council Nigeria, Donna McGowan, said the awards celebrate learners within the British Council Partner Schools Network.
She explained that the recognition highlights the important role education plays in preparing young people for future opportunities.
According to McGowan, several Nigerian students achieved top rankings both nationally and globally. She noted that these accomplishments reflect the quality of education delivered through Cambridge programmes.
She added that the British Council remains committed to supporting academic excellence and skills development. The organisation also continues to create pathways that help young people access higher education and employment opportunities.
McGowan further urged schools to focus on more than examination success. She said future-ready institutions should encourage creativity, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Education Leaders Applaud Award Winners
Group Managing Director of Cambridge International Education, Rod Smith, congratulated the award recipients and described the honours as among the most respected academic awards available to students worldwide.
He stated that Cambridge qualifications enjoy recognition from more than 1,400 universities and thousands of employers globally. As a result, learners gain access to broader educational and career opportunities.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, praised Cambridge International Education and the British Council for promoting excellence in the education sector.
Baxter noted that education remains a cornerstone of the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He described the award recipients as ambassadors of Nigeria’s academic achievements on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Director of Examinations at the British Council Nigeria, Eyitayo Akanji, said excellence requires preparation, collaboration and consistent support from school leaders, teachers and students.
He emphasised that strong partnerships within the education system play a vital role in helping learners achieve outstanding results.
The Cambridge Awards showcased the remarkable achievements of Nigerian learners and schools in global examinations. By recognising 156 outstanding recipients, Cambridge and the British Council highlighted the country’s growing influence in international education.
The event also reinforced the need for schools to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. As technology continues to transform society, educators remain focused on developing the academic knowledge and life skills that young people need to succeed both locally and globally.
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