By Efe Onodjae

The Worldwide President of Abeokuta Girls’ Grammar School Old Girls Association (AGGSOGA), Mrs. Ajibola Solape, has detailed how the association has invested millions of naira in infrastructure, student welfare and advocacy programmes aimed at repositioning the historic institution.

Solape, who is also the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Maranatha Chemical Ventures Limited, spoke during an exclusive interview, highlighting key interventions carried out since she assumed office in July 2022.

According to her, leadership within the association is earned through active participation and proven commitment to the school’s development. She disclosed that members unanimously agreed on her emergence as president based on her track record of service and dedication.

She revealed that prior to her tenure, the association committed over N30 million to tackle a severe erosion problem that threatened the school’s infrastructure. Upon assuming office, she personally funded the electrification of the school’s multi-purpose hall at a cost of N3.7 million, covering armored cables, fittings, power poles and full wiring installation. The project was further supported by an alumna who donated a generator and ceiling fans.

Under her leadership, the association has renovated classrooms, upgraded the school gate and played a role in facilitating the construction of three additional classroom blocks by the state government. During the school’s 70th anniversary celebration, more than 3,000 students were provided with meals, a gesture she described as unprecedented in the school’s history.

In the area of technology advancement, the association secured a fully equipped solar-powered computer room through collaboration with an alumna connected to the Nigerian Communications Commission. Another old girl facilitated the donation of a functional library through corporate support from TotalEnergies.

Solape also emphasized the association’s commitment to student welfare, disclosing that 25 students are currently on scholarships funded by individual alumni, with one benefactor sponsoring 12 students.

Beyond infrastructure, she said AGGSOGA has intensified advocacy against drug abuse and social vices among students. Following an incident involving shisha use by some students, the association engaged the Ogun State Ministry of Education, met with parents and provided counseling rather than punitive measures. She noted that all affected students remain in school and that similar incidents have not reoccurred.

The association organizes at least three annual engagement sessions addressing drug abuse, sex education and the role of the girl-child in society. Another student development programme is scheduled for April 1, featuring accomplished alumnae and academic professionals.

Solape further disclosed that active membership of the association has grown from about 50 members at the start of her administration to approximately 1,500, attributing the increase to transparency and financial accountability.

Balancing her leadership role with overseeing a manufacturing company that employs about 200 staff has required sacrifice, she admitted, but described service to the school as a fulfilling responsibility. With her tenure expected to conclude in July 2026, Solape said the decision on whether she continues in office rests with members of the association, adding that her focus remains on sustaining the developmental momentum achieved so far.