Page 5 - Blossoms 05 03102025

A Message from
MR MURRAY

HEAD OF SCHOOL

he flags hanging from the trees, the Nigerian fare; I tried Jollof rice for the very
rolls of fabric as long as a street first time and happily rate it as absolutely
Tdraped around the school, the delicious! Perfectly spiced, rich in flavour,
streamers attached from the roof down to and served with the warmth and generosity
the playground, the faint aroma of Jollof that makes Nigerian hospitality so
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 Ginger, both drinks really hitting the spot on
Nigeria does too! The atmosphere on such a beautiful day!
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. 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!
Of course, moments like this also invite It was one of those moments that captured perfectly the spirit of international
reflection. Independence Day carries with it friendship and community that we see at Abuja Prep every day.
the memory of a colonial past, one

deeply entwined with my own birthplace: As Nigeria turns 65, I find myself grateful - for the hospitality extended to me
the United Kingdom. The joy of October 1st during my first month in Abuja, for the lessons I am already learning, and for
is not only about marking a date in history, the chance to witness first-hand the beauty of a nation whose people are the
but about honouring the journey of a people epitome of strength and optimism. Independence Day was not just a
who, 65 years ago, reclaimed their voice celebration; it was an experience that left quite an impression on me!
and took back control of their own destiny.
Whilst watching our talented staff play the Here’s to Nigeria at 65, and to many more moments of unity, joy, and shared
parts of Nigeria’s independence heroes on purpose in the years ahead.
Tuesday, that deeper meaning was not lost

on me as I stood among the celebrations. Have a wonderful weekend!
Mr Murray.
And then came the food! Our children were
super excited to taste the traditional

DISCOVER DEVELOP DELIVER DISCOVER DEVELOP DELIVER