Ireland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, visited the African School of Economics (ASE) to explore potential collaborations and partnerships. The visit, which was held on the 20th of November, 2024, highlighted the shared goals of promoting education, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange between Ireland and Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji, introduced the university, highlighting its transnational vision and stressing its strengths in culture and entrepreneurship. He noted that ASE aims to produce job creators and entrepreneurs who contribute to society, rather than mere job seekers.
“A university is universal and therefore cannot be done alone; we need partnerships.” The vice chancellor added that a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) may facilitate exchange programs between Ireland and ASE, fostering academic cooperation.
In his address, the Country Director, Mr Obinna Obiwulu, reiterated ASE\’s commitment to cross-country collaborations and in-depth research. He added that ASE Nigeria is built upon the successes of its postgraduate campuses in Benin and Cote d\’Ivoire, aiming to increase African participation in solution-providing for the continent.
“ In Nigeria, access to quality education is synonymous with wealth. The university is therefore dedicated to producing equal opportunity access regardless of social stratification,” The country director remarked.
Citing the institution’s research contribution to the Hollywood blockbuster, ‘The Woman King,’ the Country Director stressed the institution’s commitment to research and the work by ASE Arts to elucidate obscure dimensions of African culture and history.
Ambassador Ryan acknowledged the long-standing history between the Irish and Nigerian people, pre- and post-independence. He praised Ireland\’s culture of localising foreign investments, and creating employment, thus making them perfect partners for ASE. Ryan emphasized Ireland\’s obsession with education: \”We control our freedom through education.\” He also highlighted the need to build bridges between young Nigerians overseas and those indigenous to the country.
Regarding partnerships, the ambassador noted that Ireland would gladly facilitate a partnership between ASE and the EU.
The visit concluded with the Registrar, Mrs Emi-Fowowe Ogunboye, expressing gratitude and anticipation for future collaborations with the embassy.
This development marks a significant step towards strengthening educational ties between Ireland and Nigeria, fostering a brighter future for both nations.