Mrs. Olaide Turner-Moyet, the dynamic Director of Alliance Française Ibadan and a passionate artist and Pan-Africanist, is revolutionising French language education in Nigeria by championing a fun, engaging, and culturally rich approach to learning.
With over 25 years of experience as an educator, artist, and cultural advocate, Turner-Moyet understands that language learning is not just about memorization, but about creating joyful, meaningful experiences. At the helm of Alliance Française Ibadan, she is reshaping how French is taught, integrating games, mnemonics, and interactive tools to make the process lively and accessible for learners of all ages.
“My goal is to make people learn French the French way, with excitement and creativity.Language acquisition should be joyful, not tedious ,” she says .
Turner-Moyet’s career journey is a tapestry of rich experiences: from teaching English, French, and social studies at various educational levels, to running a business promoting African textiles, to facilitating art therapy workshops. Her artistic sensibility infuses her leadership with creativity and empathy, qualities she believes are essential in education.
Under her guidance, Alliance Française Ibadan is more than a language school; it’s a vibrant cultural hub offering exhibitions, artist residencies, workshops, and regional exchanges designed to deepen intercultural dialogue across West Africa.
Turner-Moyet highlights the strategic importance of French in Nigeria, surrounded by Francophone countries such as Benin, Togo, Cameroon, and Niger. As Nigeria’s second official language, French proficiency is crucial for regional trade, diplomacy, tourism, and professional opportunities.
“Language is power.If we want to lead and collaborate in West Africa, we must communicate in both English and French ,” she stresses.
Alliance Française Ibadan also caters to professionals and students preparing for international exams, especially those aspiring to migrate to Canada or Francophone countries, bridging educational gaps and opening doors for Nigerians on the global stage.
As a woman leading a major cultural institution, Turner-Moyet brings a nurturing yet purposeful leadership style.
She explains, “I lead not because I’m a woman, but because I’m human, driven by empathy and love. She encourages women leaders to embrace their unique power to nurture ideas, uplift communities, and heal societal challenges’’.
Her message to young women is one of resilience and hope:“The journey won’t be easy, but every experience will shape you into a leader with depth, wisdom, and compassion.”
Turner-Moyet’s belief in art as a tool for healing and social change is central to her work, both at Alliance Française and through initiatives like the Young Artists Art Hub, Art Theraparty, and the PneumArt Workshop under the Pneuma-City Project.
“Art allows us to reflect on who we are and reimagine who we want to be. It’s a powerful way to tell new stories built on creativity, integrity, and community.”
In a fast-changing world, Turner-Moyet urges Nigerians, especially the youth, to focus on building character alongside knowledge.
“Work smart, not just hard. Think creatively and live meaningfully, a life that truly matters.”
Olaide Turner-Moyet’s pioneering work at Alliance Française Ibadan exemplifies how language learning, when blended with culture and creativity, can empower individuals and strengthen regional ties, proving that French education, taught the fun way, is truly a gateway to opportunity and unity in West Africa.
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