Page 5 - Blossoms 2025-26 04 03102025 Independence Day Special Edition

A Message from
MR MURRAY

HEAD OF SCHOOL

he flags hanging from the trees, the And then came the food! Our children were
rolls of fabric as long as a street super excited to taste the traditional
Tdraped around the school, the Nigerian fare; I tried Jollof rice for the very
streamers attached from the roof down to first time and happily rate it as absolutely
the playground, the faint aroma of Jollof delicious! Perfectly spiced, rich in flavour,
rice escaping from the kitchen. My Nigerian and served with the warmth and generosity

friends in Tanzania know how to celebrate, that makes Nigerian hospitality so
and this confirmed to me that the rest of memorable. To top it off, I had a glass
Nigeria does too! The atmosphere on of Chapman and another of Tamarind &
Tuesday was electric, filled with music, Ginger, both drinks really hitting the spot on
laughter, and an unmistakable sense of such a beautiful day!
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 celebra-
who, 65 years ago, reclaimed their voice tion; 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.

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