University of Lagos, on Friday, June 27, 2025 played host to a student delegation from the African-American Male Education Network and Development (A²MEND), a non-profit educational exchange and cultural immersion programme aimed at connecting African-American students with the African continent.
The students, led by the Global Lead for International Students, Professor Blessing Anyikwa, were welcomed by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Professor ‘Muyiwa Falaiye at the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room on the 10th floor of the Senate House.
While expressing excitement at the visit, Professor Falaiye commended the students for making the journey, despite the negative perceptions about Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of cultural exchange even as Professor Blessing Anyikwa encouraged the delegation to explore both the academic and social life of UNILAG, recommending some exciting spots on campus. She encouraged continued interaction through social media and future academic collaborations, underscoring the visit’s role in strengthening cross-cultural and academic ties between Africa and the African diaspora.
The visiting group of students, selected from one hundred and sixteen (116) community colleges in California, arrived Nigeria on Monday, June 16, 2025. They expressed appreciation for the warm reception and affirmed that the University of Lagos was specifically selected due to its academic prestige and vibrant student life.
After the courtesy visit, the delegation went on a tour of the University, participated in a friendly basketball match with UNILAG students, engaged in discussions with some student leaders, and rounded off the day with a visit to the Makoko community in Lagos State.
Report: Favour Okpo
Photographs: Ayo Oloyede
