Tinubu hails Ajegunle school complex as global-standard landmark

President Bola Tinubu has hailed the remodelled Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle as a landmark investment capable of meeting global education standards.

He described the project as a transformative intervention aimed at improving access to quality public education for thousands of children in densely populated communities.

Tinubu, represented by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, spoke at the unveiling of the 36-school complex in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The President commending the Lagos State Government for prioritising education despite competing developmental demands.

He described the project as a major democratic dividend, noting it would significantly impact children, families and the broader socio-economic outlook of the community.

Tinubu said the facility, with ancillary structures and capacity for over 22,000 students, reflected commitment to education as a tool for transformation and development.

He noted that investments in large-scale educational infrastructure would help bridge inequality gaps and create opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

According to him, the Federal Government remains passionate about empowering future leaders and improving lives through access to quality, inclusive and functional education.

Tinubu said the scale and quality were impressive, adding that the complex could compare favourably with institutions across advanced nations.

He stressed that sustained investment in education remained one of the most effective strategies for securing children’s future and curbing crime.

“Opening the doors to schools is closing the doors to prison. Education remains the key to the future, and through this project, hope has been renewed,” he said.

He added that such projects would contribute to long-term national development by producing skilled, responsible and enlightened citizens.

Our correspondent reports the Tolu Schools Complex was formally commissioned amid applause from students, teachers and community members.

Earlier, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the regeneration of the complex as a bold, visionary intervention built for the 21st-century learner.

He said the project aligned with global best practices in education infrastructure and reflects a forward-thinking approach to public schooling.

Sanwo-Olu said the project was designed to create a conducive learning environment, urging students, teachers and parents to take ownership.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining the facilities to ensure their longevity and continued relevance for future generations.

He said the complex reflected sustained investment in quality public education and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human capital development.

Mr Hakeem Smith, Chairman, Lagos State Special Committee on the Rehabilitation of Public Schools, said challenges encountered during execution were enormous, including structural, logistical and environmental constraints.

He, however, said the committee remained focused on delivering a world-class facility that meets the needs of modern teaching and learning.

Smith said the result was an inclusive, modern environment supporting both academic and extracurricular activities for students.

He added that the project underscored the state’s resolve to provide infrastructure that promotes academic excellence and social development.

Our correspondent also reports the complex, described as the largest in sub-Saharan West Africa, serves over 20,000 students across all school levels.

The facility integrates primary, junior and secondary education within a single coordinated environment designed for efficiency and accessibility.

It includes specialised blocks for physically challenged students, equipped with solar-powered lifts and accessibility features.

Other facilities include ICT hubs, science laboratories, sporting arenas, a vocational training centre, health centre and a fire station.

The design also incorporates security infrastructure, perimeter fencing and modern classrooms aimed at enhancing safety and learning outcomes.

Similarly, Akpabio represented the President at the inauguration of the Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle, featuring 19 mini football pitches, and renamed in Tinubu’s honour.

The stadium is expected to promote grassroots sports development and provide a safe recreational environment for youths in the area.

Tinubu also virtually unveiled the Fresh Food Industrial Hub in Abijo, Ibeju-Lekki, during the event, highlighting broader economic development efforts.

The hub is expected to boost food processing, create jobs and strengthen agricultural value chains within Lagos State.

Dignitaries at events included Mr Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives; Dr Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education; and Dr Jumoke Oluwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.

Others were Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos State Deputy Governor; Mr Idris Gobir, Deputy Governor of Sokoto State; and Mrs Josephine Piyo, Deputy Governor of Plateau.