…as NASS member pledges ultramodern library, streetlights to tighten security

By Rotimi a Ojomoyela

Ado-Ekiti—A philanthropist and an indigene of Iroko Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Dr Opeyemi Abe has donated a newly constructed solar-powered science laboratory complex to Iroko Comprehensive High School, in memory of his late wife, to boost science education and community development.

The project named ‘Christiana Opeyemi-Abe Science Laboratory Complex’, consists of two standard laboratory halls, two teachers’ offices, a store room, a wash room and four modern toilet facilities for students and staff.

The facility, equipped for practical teaching in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, is powered by solar energy to ensure steady electricity supply for academic activities.

Speaking with journalists after commissioning the project, the Chairman, Nigeria-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Committee in the House of Representatives and lawmaker representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II (Ijero/Ekiti West/Efon), Biodun Omoleye, commended the donor for the rare gesture aimed at complementing government’s efforts in the education sector.

Omoleye said it was uncommon to witness such interventions in rural communities, noting that the laboratory complex had transformed the school into a more complete institution capable of delivering quality science education.

According to him, practical exposure remains essential in science learning, stressing that the availability of modern laboratory equipment would improve teaching quality and broaden students’ academic exposure.

He explained that the project aligned with the development philosophy of the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, which encourages partnerships between government and private individuals in advancing public institutions.

The federal lawmaker further revealed plans to donate an ultramodern library to the school as part of efforts to strengthen learning infrastructure in the community.

He also promised to provide solar-powered streetlights to enhance security within the school environment and pledged additional interventions across communities in the state.

The lawmaker urged teachers and school authorities to ensure proper maintenance of the facility, warning that negligence could lead to damage or loss of the equipment.

His words, “It is a wonderful donation the school has received. It is not common to find gestures like this, especially in rural communities like this. Most successful people usually hide away and do not want people to know how successful they are. But for Dr. Opeyemi Abe, he has chosen to give back to his community.

“From what the Kabiyesi pointed out, this is not the first time he has assisted them, but this is a major milestone because for somebody to build an edifice like this , a complete science laboratory with equipment and even power supply, he must be commended. Like I said, he deserves to be commended even nationally.

“If you look at the facilities in the school, for a school like this not to have a befitting science laboratory means the school is not complete. Now, the school has become a complete school with this equipment centre.

“I want to commend him and also appreciate the teachers and students because this is another facility that will improve the quality of teaching and elevate the exposure level of the students. Without exposure to the practical side of science, we are not there yet. So, I am happy to be here and, like I said, I am equally challenged.