A New Era for Education in Surulere
The inauguration of the Femi Gbajabiamila Junior Secondary School marked a significant milestone in the educational landscape of the Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Surulere, Lagos State. This is the first-ever public secondary school established in the area, and it was made possible through the generous donation by the former Speaker of the House of Representatives. The project aims to address long-standing educational challenges that have affected students, parents, and teachers in the community.
At the inauguration ceremony, Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, emphasized the importance of this initiative. He stated that the struggles faced by the community over the years have finally come to an end. “This event marks a defining milestone in our collective pursuit of accessible, quality education for every child in this community,” he said. “It is not merely opening a new institution but the birth of opportunity, progress, and renewed hope for generations to come.”
Addressing Longstanding Challenges
Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Lanre Okunola, a member representing Surulere II at the House of Representatives, highlighted the daily hardships that students and parents endured. “Some faced daily hardships and safety concerns, while others abandoned their education altogether. Today, that struggle has ended,” he added. The new school stands as a beacon of inclusion, ensuring that no child in Itire-Ikate is left behind due to geography or circumstances.
He also mentioned that the school aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which focuses on providing continuous support for education at all levels in Nigeria. Gbajabiamila stressed that education is the foundation of every prosperous society, empowering individuals, transforming communities, and building nations.
Commitment to Education
Throughout his years in public service, Gbajabiamila has remained deeply committed to advancing education at all levels. During his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives, he championed the Students’ Loan Bill, now signed into law. “Its aim was to ensure that every young Nigerian, regardless of financial background, could pursue higher education without the burden of cost,” he said. However, he emphasized that education does not start at university; it begins in schools like this, where young minds are nurtured and shaped for the future.
Gbajabiamila also recounted his hands-on involvement with education, including renovating schools, equipping classrooms, and providing teaching aids. He even volunteered to teach in secondary schools, believing that leadership must be demonstrated through action, not just words. “By sharing my time and experience with students, I have seen firsthand how education fosters discipline, confidence, and purpose,” he said.
Impact Beyond the Classroom
The chief of staff appreciated the leaders, stakeholders, and people of Itire-Ikate LCDA for naming the institution after his name. He noted that the influence of the institution will extend well beyond its classrooms. “It will create jobs for teachers, administrators, and support staff, and it will serve as a centre of learning and community pride,” he said. “It will shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals who will contribute to the progress of Lagos State and Nigeria.”
Gbajabiamila also thanked the Lagos State Government, particularly the Ministry of Basic Education, for their partnership and commitment to integrating this school into the public education system.
Governor’s Perspective
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, described the project as life-transforming. “The frontier of education governance globally is predicated on collaboration and partnership with the government on building a better and brighter tomorrow for our children,” he said. “With access to qualitative education in the state, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the chief of staff to Mr. President and by extension to everyone who has contributed to the realisation of this remarkable project.”
Sanwo-Olu also noted that the school embodies the collective commitment to providing quality education, equipping children with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to excel in life. He added that the project aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the governor, with education and technology standing out as top pillars.
Community Response
Fuad Laguda, representing Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, acknowledged Gbajabiamila’s numerous interventions and their impact on the community. The Chairman of Coker/Aguda LCDA, Mr. Azeez Ogidan, described the project as a monumental and defining moment for Surulere constituency. He praised Gbajabiamila’s visionary leadership and passion for service, highlighting his far-reaching impact on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
Ogidan also mentioned that Gbajabiamila’s interventions have continued to touch lives, transform communities, and strengthen the social fabric of Surulere. “This school stands not only as the beacon of knowledge but also as a lasting legacy of Gbajabiamila’s education impact, building a brighter future for our children,” he said.
Future Prospects
The Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA, Mr. Oluwafemi Odunayo, applauded Gbajabiamila for the impactful project, describing the school as a milestone in the community. He noted that the council has also done a lot in supporting educational development in the area, including distributing free GCE forms, school uniforms, and promoting skills acquisition and youth development.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including members of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Surulere Constituencies 1 and 2, Mr. Desmond Elliot and Mrs. Mosunmola Sangodara, respectively, Oba Lateef Adams, the Onikate of Surulere, among others.
