A Legacy of Language and Friendship: The History of Alliance Française Enugu

The story of Alliance Française Enugu is not merely the account of a cultural institution — it is a living testimony to vision, collaboration, and a shared dedication to language, education, and human connection. From its modest origins to its current prominence, the Centre has stood as a bridge between cultures and a reminder of how personal commitment can grow into a collective legacy.

Early Beginnings: From the French Centre to Alliance Française Enugu
Before assuming its official identity as Alliance Française Enugu, the institution operated under the name French Centre. Foundational preparations took place between 1999 and 2001, culminating in its formal launch in 2002. The first Director was Paul Petit, while Philippe LeBreton, serving as national representative for Nigeria and working from the French Consulate, played a pivotal and influential role in its establishment. Thus, when acknowledging the key figures behind the institution’s foundation, the names Philippe LeBreton and Paul Petit stand out as the pioneering visionaries whose efforts shaped what would evolve into the vibrant cultural centre known today as Alliance Française Enugu.

The Founders: A Meeting of Kindred Minds

At the heart of the Centre’s transformation are two remarkable individuals — Professor Modum and Mr. Kevin Ejiofor — whose meeting would leave a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape of Enugu. Their partnership did not arise from formal structures or administrative directives, but from a natural meeting of like minds, united by academic depth, shared values, and an unwavering belief in the transformative influence of language. Professor Modum, a distinguished academic and lifelong linguist, describes his love for languages as the driving force of his career: “I considered myself a lover of languages... the more languages you knew, the more educated you were.” This passion led him through an illustrious teaching career spanning more than 37 years, during which he inspired countless students to see languages not only as tools of communication but as pathways to understanding the world. Mr. Kevin Ejiofor, a seasoned broadcaster with Radio Nigeria, brought a profound appreciation for communication, culture, and the power of words to connect people. Their meeting — described by Prof. Modum as almost providential — was marked by immediate intellectual harmony: “When I met him, I said, ‘Aha, that’s Kevin.’ It was very difficult for us to disagree on an issue because we thought alike.” Together, they envisioned a space where language, culture, and friendship could flourish side by side.

Inception and Early Progress
When the proposal to establish an Alliance Française in Enugu emerged, both men naturally assumed leadership roles. Their shared vision and relentless commitment energized the movement and propelled it forward. Prof. Modum recalls: “When the question of having an Alliance came up, we went together… As soon as I got involved, as soon as possible, I got it.” Their dedication quickly attracted like-minded supporters — including Kuk, Lins, and Hilder — who contributed their passion and expertise. The early years were defined by determination, creativity, and community spirit as the founding team laid the foundations of what would become one of Enugu’s most enduring cultural institutions.

Growth, Leadership, and Lasting Impact

From these early beginnings, Alliance Française Enugu grew steadily — not only in physical presence but in cultural influence and intellectual reach. Under Professor Modum’s leadership as President of the Board of Trustees for two decades, the Centre blossomed into a thriving hub of language learning, cultural exchange, and scholarly collaboration. Together with Mr. Ejiofor and the founding team, he helped shape a welcoming centre that embraced everyone — students, artists, diplomats, scholars, and dreamers — united by a shared curiosity and respect for the French language and Francophone culture. Their leadership ensured that Alliance Française Enugu remained a beacon of cultural diplomacy — a space where ideas thrived, creativity was celebrated, and friendships transcended linguistic and national boundaries. Reflecting on this journey, Prof. Modum expresses the fulfillment of seeing a dream realized: “We thank God for everything that has happened to our lives. We are still alive, watching things that we thought about, conceived, and tried to implement — healed fruits. And here you are.”

A Living Testimony
Today, Alliance Française Enugu stands as a monument to vision, resilience, and collective purpose. It represents more than an institution — it is the embodiment of a dream nurtured by individuals who believed in the enduring power of language to connect hearts and broaden horizons. Across decades of growth and change, the Centre has remained true to its founding ideals — promoting linguistic excellence, cultural diversity, and mutual understanding. Its story continues to inspire new generations of learners and cultural ambassadors, carrying forward the legacy set in motion by its founders. A legacy built on friendship. Sustained by passion. Enriched by culture.
This is the story of Alliance Française Enugu — where language meets legacy.