By Juliet Umeh

Kings College Lagos on Saturday witnessed the groundbreaking of a major redevelopment project as the Class of 1995 commenced the renovation and modernisation of the school’s Physics Laboratory in commemoration of their 30th anniversary.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Principal of Kings College, Mr. Zachariah Magaji, described the gesture as timely and deeply impactful, noting that the Physics Laboratory remains a foundational pillar for science education in the college.

He said: “It’s a privilege for me, and I have a sense of pride standing before you today on this very important occasion of the groundbreaking of the renovation of the Physics Laboratory.”

According to him, the structure had long outlived its usefulness, making its rehabilitation, re-equipping and modernisation a “well-thought project carefully incubated by the Class of 1995.”

“This is one of the subjects that forms the foundation for the sciences, where innovators have been produced and where scientists have been nurtured.
“We are very happy that you have come back to give back to your alma mater,” Magaji added.

The principal, speaking on behalf of the management and students, expressed profound gratitude to the old boys.
He said: “If there were a word bigger than ‘thank you’, we would have used it. This action is not only about building the school; it is about building the future and strengthening the link between past, present and future generations.”

Magaji, who also represented the Federal Ministry of Education, conveyed the ministry’s appreciation. “This project is in line with the Honourable Minister’s vision of encouraging stakeholders like the KCOB to contribute their quota to nation-building. We will transmit your letter to the Ministry so they are fully aware of what you are doing,” he stated.

Also speaking, a member of the Class of 1995, Dr. Mani Barminas, said the project was a symbolic return after three decades.

He said: “About 35 years ago, we all arrived here as very young boys. We graduated 30 years ago, and today we are back to give back to the system that helped shape who we are.”

He noted that the project is dedicated to the memory of classmates who had passed on, describing it as a mark of honour.
“We hope this gives their families some peace. We remember them always and pray their souls continue to rest in peace,” he said.

Explaining why the set chose the Physics Laboratory, Barminas said physics remains a core science subject and the foundation for many scientific and engineering careers.

He said: “A good number of us are engineers; I am a medical doctor. While we may not do everything at once, we felt it was appropriate to start with physics. Hopefully, we will do more.”

Barminas added that the Class of 1995 would continue to collaborate with other sets and individuals to support future projects.

“We look forward to coming back to do much more. Kings College cultured us and gave us values we can’t take for granted. It is only right that we continue to give back,” he said.