FRENCH VILLAGE HOSTS FRENCH EMBASSY OFFICIALS FOR A 3-DAY TECHNICAL MEETING
On Monday, 16th February 2026, the Nigeria French Language Village played host to a delegation from the French Embassy in Nigeria in what proved to be a memorable and impactful three-day engagement aimed at strengthening French language education in Nigeria. The mission was carried out in collaboration with experts from University of Caen Normandy as part of the launch of the “Bilingual and Competitive” project.
The visiting team comprising Mrs. Magaly Losange, Mr. Jacques Besiat and Mr. Serazin Olivier was received in grand style, as the atmosphere came alive with the rhythmic beats of talking drums and captivating traditional songs by the Ogu cultural troupe. The vibrant cultural welcome set the tone for what would become a fruitful and engaging visit. The guests were formally received by the Director/CEO, Prof. Oladiipo Kolawole,FNITI, MNAL, alongside other Principal Officers of the institution and ushered into the Council Chambers for official proceedings.
The event commenced with formal introductions of all dignitaries and stakeholders present. This was followed by a media chat session attended by notable media personalities who directed questions to both the Director /CEO and the representative of French Embassy, Mrs. Magaly Losange.
Responding to questions about the purpose of the three-day programme, the Director emphasized that as an Inter-University Centre in Nigeria, NFLV serves as the ideal platform for such collaboration. He noted that the institution acts as a vital link between the Embassy and universities that offer French as undergraduate course in Nigeria. According to him, the programme is designed to improve teaching methodologies in French language studies, introduce new and innovative approaches, and further familiarize the Embassy and its academic partners with the operations, achievements, and needs of the Village.
In her remarks, Madam Magdalen explained that NFLV plays a central role in the newly launched “Bilingual and Competitive” project, an initiative aimed at correcting misconceptions about the influence and opportunities associated with learning French. She highlighted that the initiative would focus on capacity building, the provision of digital and technological resources, and the establishment of a Master’s degree programme in French at NFLV.
As part of the joint mission, the delegation assessed teaching aids previously acquired under an earlier support programme, reviewed progress achieved in teaching practices, and identified priority training needs for the months ahead. The visit also provided a valuable opportunity for the two experts from the University of Caen Normandy to engage directly with teachers, IT teams, and students, who enthusiastically showcased their French language proficiency and creativity through presentations and interactive sessions.
Addressing inquiries by pressmen on admission criteria, the Director /CEO clarified that students are primarily admitted through Nigerian universities, where French students are required to undertake their 300 level courses at NFLV for a one-year Language Immersion Programme (LIP). Additionally, the institution offers direct admission into diploma programmes for non-French students seeking direct entry admission into 200-level at universities, as well as Module 1–3 programmes designed to broaden access to French language education.
On the benefits of the Embassy’s proposed programme, Mrs. Losange stressed that its primary goal is to ensure that students attain strong spoken proficiency in French and can confidently present their certificates with the assurance of viable employment opportunities. The programme seeks to eliminate uncertainties surrounding career prospects by creating awareness, bridging the gap between companies and students, training teachers, and facilitating resource acquisition.
Next steps in the collaboration include the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between NFLV and the University of Caen Normandy, the acquisition of additional digital equipment, and the rollout of new training sessions scheduled for 2026. These measures are expected to further consolidate gains already made and expand the impact of the initiative across institutions connected to the Nigeria French Language Village.
Beyond academic collaboration, the initiative is also aimed at deepening the longstanding relationship between NFLV and the French Embassy, recognizing the Village as a central pillar for the study of French in Nigeria. Together, the partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting excellence in French language teaching and learning across the country.
The visit was not solely official but also culturally enriching and celebratory. Students of NFLV thrilled the delegation with impressive cultural dance performances, showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage. The delegation also embarked on an excursion to historic sites in Badagry, exploring landmarks that reflect the history and evolution of Nigeria.
The engagement was rounded off with a well-organized dinner programme, providing an opportunity for further interaction and reinforcing the growing partnership between both institutions. The visit stands as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance French language education and strengthen bilateral educational cooperation between Nigeria and France.