Monarch honours Charterhouse Lagos head

John Todd, the Founding Head and Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, has been installed as the Aare Oluko of Ogombo Kingdom in Lagos State. The traditional title was conferred by Oba Abiodun Muslim Ogunbo, the Ogudu Oshadi of Ogombo kingdom, recognizing Todd's significant contributions to education and his strong ties with the community where the British school is located.

The installation ceremony, held at the monarch's palace, was attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, Lagos State Government representatives, and education stakeholders. The title acknowledges Todd's role in establishing Charterhouse Lagos, developing its educational programs, and fostering engagement with the Ogombo community. His responsibilities have included adapting the Charterhouse educational model to the Nigerian context while integrating local elements and Nigerian identity.

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Receiving the title, Todd thanked the monarch and residents of Ogombo for the recognition, describing it as a significant honour.

According to the school, the traditional recognition also honors Todd's commitment to youth development and his efforts in building relationships between Charterhouse Lagos and its surrounding community. Todd expressed his gratitude for the honor, emphasizing that education should extend beyond the classroom to include service, partnership, and the development of young people.

The event underscores Charterhouse Lagos's commitment to developing a local character, despite its British educational roots. The school aims to be perceived not merely as an extension of its UK institution but as a school deeply connected to its environment and Nigerian cultural heritage. This philosophy is encapsulated in its motto, "Traditional Values. British Academic Excellence," which seeks to blend Charterhouse traditions with an emphasis on local identity. Todd's installation adds a traditional dimension to his relationship with Ogombo, reinforcing the school's connection to the community.

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He also highlighted the relationship between the school and its host community, saying education should extend beyond the classroom to encompass service, partnership and the development of young people.