Graduates of the University of Leicester in Nigeria now have a formal platform to connect and contribute to national development, following the official launch of the institution's Nigerian alumni chapter at a reception held in Abuja on Wednesday.

Registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in January, the chapter's debut event brought together graduates, partners, and stakeholders as part of Leicester's Centurion Year Commemoration, marking a significant point in the university's 100 year history.

Director of the Future Students Office and Leicester alumnus, Phil Dalby, told attendees that Nigerian graduates had played a defining role in the university's story. "You enriched the life of the University when you were studying there, and you continue to do so after you graduated. You are citizens of change, and as such, you have gone on to excel in your professions, in business, in public service, and in your communities," he stated.

Dalby noted that Leicester is one of only two Universities in the world founded as a living memorial after World War I, with the motto "So that they may have life" continuing to guide its mission. He also referenced the university's recent recognition as University of the Year by the Daily Mail and its 20th place ranking in the UK by Time Magazine, before announcing an ambition to raise £100 million as the institution enters its second century.

Coordinator of the reception, Dr Zainab Ladan Mai Bornu, stressed the importance of alumni to the university's global standing. "Our alumni are very, very important to us at Leicester. Even after leaving, we remain in constant communication. We expect them to demonstrate the good things they took from Leicester back to wherever they are, to show how to be hardworking, dedicated, and honest citizens of change," she said.

Mathew Adepoju, Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency, credited his Leicester education with shaping his professional standards, urging younger alumni to remain resilient in the face of Nigeria's infrastructural challenges.

Navy Commodore Abdulhakeem Olushina Oyebode, Director Operations Branch at Naval Headquarters, reflected that "having a top class degree from the University of Leicester actually opens doors, puts you in that position where you can excel."

A panel discussion explored how alumni networks can drive career growth and national development, with speakers emphasising mentorship, community investment, and active participation as key tools for impact.