A two-man team from the University of Warwick arrived Covenant University on April 3, 2025, with the goal of exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration between the two institutions and to participate in the National Budget Roundtable Conference, taking place at Covenant University on the same day.

The team, comprising Professor Franklyn Lisk and Assistant Professor Samuel Obeng, met with the Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Professor Timothy Anake, and other key members of the University's leadership in the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Anake praised the existing partnership between the University of Warwick and Covenant University. He emphasized the importance of expanding this relationship beyond the co-hosting of the National Budget Roundtable Conference, suggesting more significant collaborations that could bring greater benefits to both institutions.

Professor Anake specifically expressed interest in learning more about Warwick University's Apprenticeship Scheme, which he believed could be adapted and implemented at Covenant University. He also highlighted Warwick's Manufacturing Hub, which could play a key role in helping Covenant University achieve its goal of attaining more international recognition.

The Vice-Chancellor also took the opportunity to introduce ‘Agenda 7-2030,’ the strategic vision that drives Covenant University’s growth. This agenda outlines specific goals the University aims to achieve by the year 2030. He believes that partnerships with institutions like the University of Warwick, particularly in programs such as the Apprenticeship Scheme and Manufacturing Hub, could help Covenant University reach these ambitious targets, as it strives to address the pressing challenges faced by Africa.

Professor Anake expressed his gratitude to the Warwick delegation for their determination to visit Covenant University, despite the challenging travel conditions, and for their willingness to participate in the conference. He emphasized that the outcomes of the roundtable could have a long-lasting impact on both Universities and contribute to the advancement of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

He also stressed that Africa, with its rich potential, could greatly benefit from partnerships like the one between Covenant and Warwick, which could help propel the continent forward. He concluded by inviting the guests to enjoy a tour of the Covenant University campus, encouraging them to experience its lush, green environment when they have some free time.

Professor Franklyn Lisk, the Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Warwick, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality, extended by Covenant University. This visit marked his third trip to the University, as he took the opportunity to highlight the mutual benefits the collaboration has brought to both institutions. Professor Lisk expressed his eagerness to find more ways to deepen the relationship, going beyond the National Budget Roundtable programme.

Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu, the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Igban, and other members of the University's leadership team.