AGOSA Class of 1983/84 Gives Back, Renovates Facilities at Lagos Alma Mater
By Dim Oba, LAGOS – The 1983/84 set of Aguda Grammar School, Lagos, has given back to its alma mater by commissioning renovated facilities, including 50 tables, 50 chairs and refurbished male and female toilets, as part of efforts to improve the learning environment for students.
The projects, tagged Renovation and Optimisation Projects, were commissioned by the Aguda Old Students Association (AGOSA) in a move that underscores the importance of alumni contributions to educational development and school infrastructure.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, AGOSA President, Mr Uwem Obot, said the initiative reflected the association’s commitment to supporting the growth and development of the institution.
Obot recalled that Aguda Grammar School was established in 1980 by the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, former governor of Lagos State, popularly known as Baba Kere kere, as part of his administration’s drive to expand access to education.
He said Jakande revolutionised education in the state through a comprehensive free and compulsory education policy, the construction of more than 118 additional secondary schools and over 22,000 classrooms, and efforts to eliminate the restrictive morning-and-afternoon shift system in public schools.
According to him, the education reforms enabled thousands of children to acquire education and compete favourably with their counterparts in private schools.
Obot explained that Aguda Grammar School initially operated as a single institution but later expanded and split into multiple schools following an increase in student enrolment.
He noted that the 1983/84 set were pioneer students of the school, adding that AGOSA was established to unite former students, strengthen lifelong relationships, promote networking and support infrastructural and developmental projects at their alma mater.
Describing the newly completed facilities as an example of the impact of collective action, the AGOSA president commended members of the association for their financial contributions, moral support, prayers and voluntary labour, which made the project possible.
He specifically appreciated the project manager, Mr Skey Sunday Asiegbu, his assistant, Mr Godwin Ogwa, and members of the Renovation Committee for their dedication and commitment to the successful execution of the project.
Addressing the students, Obot said the facilities were provided for their benefit and formally handed them over to the school administration.
He also assured the school community that the association would undertake more projects in the future to support the institution’s development.
Obot concluded by praying for the continued progress of Aguda Grammar School, Lagos State and Nigeria, expressing the association’s hope for a brighter future for the school and its students.
Earlier, the school principal, whose name was not provided, welcomed the old students and expressed gratitude for their intervention, describing the project as a demonstration of their commitment to the institution.
The principal said the gesture had made the school proud and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the alumni, expressing hope that they would attain greater heights in leadership and remain committed to serving humanity.
The commissioning ceremony also featured prayers and the sanctification of the newly provided chairs, tables and renovated facilities by Reverend (Mrs.) Veronica Ehondor and Pastor Peter Nwasoria.
Other highlights included a vote of thanks by the principal, refreshments, a closing prayer and a group photograph.
