Page 4 - Blossoms 05 03102025

A Message from
MR MURRAY
HEAD OF SCHOOL
he flags hanging from the trees, the
rolls of fabric as long as a street
Tdraped around the school, the
streamers attached from the roof down to
the playground, the faint aroma of Jollof
rice escaping from the kitchen. My Nigerian memorable. To top it off, I had a glass of
friends in Tanzania know how to celebrate, Chapman and another of Tamarind &
and this confirmed to me that the rest of
Nigeria does too! The atmosphere on
Tuesday was electric, filled with music,
laughter, and an unmistakable sense of
pride, which is not always evident at every
national celebration around the world.
Of course, moments like this also invite
reflection. Independence Day carries with it
the memory of a colonial past, one
deeply entwined with my own birthplace:
the United Kingdom. The joy of October 1st
is not only about marking a date in history,
but about honouring the journey of a people
who, 65 years ago, reclaimed their voice
and took back control of their own destiny.
Whilst watching our talented staff play the
parts of Nigeria’s independence heroes on
Tuesday, that deeper meaning was not lost
on me as I stood among the celebrations.
And then came the food! Our children were
super excited to taste the traditional
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Nigerian fare; I tried Jollof rice for the very
first time and happily rate it as absolutely
delicious! Perfectly spiced, rich in flavour,
and served with the warmth and generosity
that makes Nigerian hospitality so
Ginger, both drinks really hitting the spot on
such a beautiful day!
DELIVER
In the late afternoon, up on the top floor, I came across our Kenyan trio - a little
reminder of where I now call home - and just had to grab this photo with them!
It was one of those moments that captured perfectly the spirit of international
friendship and community that we see at Abuja Prep every day.
As Nigeria turns 65, I find myself grateful - for the hospitality extended to me
during my first month in Abuja, for the lessons I am already learning, and for
the chance to witness first-hand the beauty of a nation whose people are the
epitome of strength and optimism. Independence Day was not just a
celebration; it was an experience that left quite an impression on me!
Here’s to Nigeria at 65, and to many more moments of unity, joy, and shared
purpose in the years ahead.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mr Murray.
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