Bernadette Thompson OBE
I often describe myself as British-born but Nigerian-shaped. I was born in the UK, but my discipline, my grounding, and much of my character were forged in Nigeria. That dual identity has given me a unique lens through which to see my country of heritage, especially now as Nigeria turns 65.
When I look back from independence in 1960 to where we are today, I see a nation that has struggled, survived, and thrived all at once. Nigeria’s strength has always been its culture. Respect for elders, the centrality of family, the warmth of our food and traditions – these are the things that make us who we are. Of course, some traditions are shifting as Gen Zs shape their own future, but the resilience, pride, and faith of Nigerians remain constants.
On my last trip home, I was genuinely surprised by the speed of technological advancement. I opened a bank account and received a debit card instantly – something that takes weeks here in the UK. That moment struck me as symbolic: Nigeria often takes bold leaps, pushing boundaries and embracing innovation in ways that defy expectation.
And we must recognise how far Nigerians have come, not only within our borders but across the world. We are present in every field, making our mark in:
- Sports – from global football stars to Olympic athletes, carrying the green-and-white flag with pride.
- Business – entrepreneurs, both at home and abroad, who are building companies and creating jobs against incredible odds.
- Science & Technology – researchers, doctors, and innovators who are advancing medicine, engineering, and digital solutions.
- Arts & Music – our Afrobeat stars, writers, and creators who are redefining culture on a global scale.
Wherever you turn, you will find Nigerians excelling. And wherever you travel, you will find a Nigerian community alive, vibrant, and proudly carrying the spirit of home.
Still, we cannot ignore the challenges. The gap between rich and poor remains vast, with little middle ground. Corruption continues to undermine opportunities. And while women are making strides, we are still underrepresented in the highest tiers of leadership. Gender equality and equity must form part of the next chapter of Nigeria’s growth.
Yet I remain hopeful. I believe in the boldness and creativity of the younger generation. Gen Z is restless, ready to shape politics, to demand more accountability, and to build a new narrative. They, alongside the diaspora, will be vital in charting the future.
For me, Nigeria at 65 is also deeply personal. Recently, I was honoured by Nigeria Magazine with a Cultural Impact Award, recognising my heritage and contributions. I have received many awards in my life, but this one was different. It wasn’t just about professional success – it was about identity, belonging, and the pride of being Nigerian. It reminded me that no matter how far we travel or how many accolades we collect, our heritage is what grounds us.
So, as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, I celebrate not just the nation, but the spirit of its people. We cannot rest on our laurels – there is still work to do. But we can stand proud of our resilience, our creativity, and our global presence. Wherever we are in the world, we carry Nigeria with us. And that, for me, is the greatest honour of all.
Bernadette Thompson OBE
www.linkedin.com/in/bernadettethompson
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@BJ_Thompson1
Bernadette Thompson OBE is an accomplished Human Resources leader with specialist expertise in culture change and inclusion. She is currently the Director of People and Culture at North Middlesex University Hospital and communities, part of the Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust. Her previous NHS leadership roles include Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at King’s College Hospital and Associate Director of Inclusion at Barts Health Trust.
Before moving into the NHS, Bernadette built an outstanding 23-year career in the Civil Service, where she left a lasting legacy across major Government Departments and Agencies including the Ministry of Justice, Home Office, HM Treasury, Legal Aid Agency, Cabinet Office, and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities.
Renowned for driving organisational transformation, she has developed and delivered strategies that embed inclusion, reshape workplace cultures, and expand talent pipelines. Her five-year tenure as co-chair of a cross-Government race network secured multiple accolades and positioned the network as a powerful catalyst for change across the public sector.
A respected keynote speaker and facilitator, Bernadette is recognised for her compelling insights on leadership, culture, diversity, employee engagement, and wellbeing. Her influence has been acknowledged with numerous prestigious awards
