The International Education Group at Cambridge Press and Assessment, in partnership with British Council, has honoured 156 learners and schools across Nigeria for outstanding performances in the June and November 2025 Cambridge examination series.

The event, themed: ‘Celebrating excellence, connecting future-ready schools,’ was held at the Civic Centre, Lagos, and brought together education leaders, school proprietors, teachers, parents, learners and private-sector stakeholders.

Among the award recipients were 16 learners who emerged ‘Top in the World’ in Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) subjects, underscoring Nigeria’s growing reputation for academic excellence on the global stage.

A breakdown of the awards showed that 51 schools received School Awards, seven learners earned Best Across Subjects Awards, while 77 students emerged ‘Top in the Country.’

In addition, 16 learners received the prestigious ‘Top in the World’ Cambridge IGCSE Awards, while 56 High Achievement Awards were presented to students who excelled in subjects that are less widely taken in Nigeria.

Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Cambridge International Education, Juan Visser, described the event as an important platform for recognising learners who have competed successfully on a global stage.

He noted that the same Cambridge examinations taken by learners in Nigeria are written by students in over 100 countries, making the achievements of Nigerian students globally significant.

“The exams these learners sat are based on global standards. Their success showed they can compete with the best students anywhere in the world,” he said.

Visser stressed the need for continued investment in education, particularly in an era increasingly shaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI)and technological advancement.

He added that while AI continues to transform workplaces and societies, subject knowledge, critical thinking, communication and self-management skills remain indispensable for future success.

Country Director of the British Council Nigeria, Donna McGowan, said the awards celebrate the achievements of students within the British Council Partner Schools Network.

According to her, it highlights the importance of education in preparing young people for future opportunities.

She noted that several Nigerian learners emerged as top performers not only in the country, but also globally, demonstrating the quality of education being delivered through Cambridge programmes.

According to her, the British Council remains committed to supporting skills development, academic excellence and pathways that enable young people to access higher education and employment opportunities both within and outside Nigeria.

She stressed that while examination success remains important, future ready schools must also focus on nurturing critical thinking, creativity, communication and problem-solving skills that prepare learners for life beyond the classroom.

Group Managing Director of Cambridge International Education, Rod Smith, congratulated the award recipients, describing the honours as among the most prestigious awards available to young learners globally.

Smith said Cambridge qualifications are recognised by more than 1,400 universities and thousands of employers worldwide, providing learners with opportunities for further education and career advancement.

British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, commended Cambridge International Education and the British Council for creating a platform that promotes excellence and collaboration in the education sector.

He noted that education remains one of the strongest pillars of the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Baxter described the award winners as ambassadors of Nigeria’s educational excellence on the global stage and encouraged stakeholders to continue investing in education as a pathway to a more prosperous and innovative future.

The Director of Examinations at the British Council Nigeria, Mr Eyitayo Akanji, said that excellence would be achieved through adequate preparation, sustained support and collaboration among school leaders, teachers and students.

The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards form part of Cambridge’s broader commitment to recognizing and celebrating students success, while supporting schools to raise the profile of academic achievement within their communities.

Many Cambridge students progress to tertiary studies at both local and international higher institutions, a testament to the value and global recognition of Cambridge qualifications.