By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Ogun State government has commended Old Students’ Associations across the state for their consistent and selfless contributions to the improvement of educational facilities in public schools.

Speaking at the commissioning of a modern school entrance and gate house at Egba Comprehensive High School, Asero, Abeokuta, the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, said alumni interventions have continued to complement government efforts in providing a conducive learning environment.

Arigbabu noted that old students’ associations have shown remarkable commitment and healthy competition in giving their alma mater a befitting outlook, describing their interventions as critical to sustaining quality education.

According to him, the developmental efforts of alumni align with the educational transformation agenda of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration, which is currently undertaking massive rehabilitation, construction and equipping of schools across the state to enhance teaching and learning.

“It has now become a passion for old students celebrating anniversaries to mark them with impactful projects that complement what the government is doing. This is truly a laudable development,” the commissioner said.

The project was executed by the Achievers 1982 Set of the Egba Comprehensive High School Old Students Association (ECHSOSA) and unveiled amid tributes to the school’s rich history, its contributions to nation-building and the renewed focus on infrastructure renewal in Ogun State’s education sector.

Also speaking, the National President of ECHSOSA, Mr. Olufemi Popoola, described the commissioning as another milestone in the collective effort to restore the old glory of the institution.

Popoola thanked God for what he described as a historic moment, noting that the project was the product of years of vision, sacrifice and collaboration among alumni.

Popoola noted that generations of distinguished Nigerians have passed through the school.

He commended the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, under Prof. Arigbabu, for its consistent support, particularly appreciating the state government for granting the school flagship status three years ago, a move he said accelerated infrastructural renewal and academic competitiveness.

Popoola also praised the Teaching Service Commission for its complementary role and lauded the digitalisation of operations within the Ministry of Education, describing it as top-notch and a model for other states.

According to him, the newly constructed entrance and gate house is one of several projects now dotting the school compound, made possible by the flagship status initiative.

He disclosed that the project was fully funded and executed by the Achievers 1982 Set, describing the gesture as a powerful demonstration of loyalty and commitment to the school.

In her address, Chairperson of the Achievers 1982 Set, Mrs. Abiodun Khadija Lasabi, said the commissioning symbolised more than the unveiling of a physical structure.

Describing herself as a product and lifelong stakeholder of the school, Lasabi said her journey with the institution spanned decades—as a student from 1977 to 1982, a teacher from 1991 to 2004, principal between 2022 and 2024, and now an alumna leader.

“This institution never lets you go. It holds you in its heart, and you hold it in yours,” she said.

She explained that the ultra-modern gate and gate house symbolise unity, resilience and a shared resolve to enhance safety, dignity and the learning environment of the school.

Addressing the students, Lasabi urged them to see the new gate as a symbol of possibility, representing generations of professionals and leaders who once passed through the same entrance.

“You are sitting where doctors once sat. You are learning where lawyers once learned,” she said, encouraging them to dream boldly and strive for excellence.