The Ogun State Government has reiterated that education remains a veritable tool for sustainable peace, development, and social cohesion.

Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, stated this during the commissioning and handover of newly constructed toilet and solar-powered borehole facilities, as well as renovation works, facilitated by Maj. Gen. Olutoye Oluyemi at African Church Primary School, Oba Kobape, in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area.

Represented by the Board Secretary, Mr. Olubori Akinleye, Ifede described the intervention as significant, noting that it underscored the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to nation-building beyond defending the nation’s territorial integrity. He added that the project reflects a shared commitment to advancing education in the state.

“I must commend the Nigerian Army’s impact from the battlefield to the classroom, thereby touching lives at the grassroots in profound and lasting ways. We are indeed proud of our son, Major Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, who facilitated this intervention in his home community,” Ifede said.

He assured that the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led administration remained committed to providing a conducive learning environment across the three senatorial districts of the State. He also urged the Kobape community, especially the School-Based Management Committee and Parents’ Forum, to ensure the facilities are well-maintained so they continue to serve their purpose.

Speaking at the event, Maj. Gen. Olatoye explained that his passion for education inspired the project, appreciating the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his support in making it a reality.

“When the Chief of Army Staff sent me a letter informing me that I was one of the beneficiaries of this special intervention project, I had to act immediately by conducting a survey and here we are today’’,  he recounted.

He urged stakeholders to safeguard the facilities for the benefit of pupils, while advising the learners to take their studies seriously, describing education as the only sure pathway to success.

In his welcome address, Chairman of Obafemi-Owode Local Government, Hon. Lanre Ogunsola, represented by the Education Secretary, Hon. Adeoye Emmanuel, commended the donor for giving back to the society, adding that the community and school were proud to be associated with his achievements.

Also speaking, the Project Supervisor, Mr. Olawale Olatoye, listed some of the donor’s contributions, including the renovation of school buildings, construction of modern toilet facilities, provision of boreholes, a dining hall, and 80 double chairs and tables for pupils, among other projects.

Responding on behalf of the community, the Baale of Ido-Kobape, Chief Majekodunmi Aremu, and the Headteacher of the school, Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Ayodele expressed gratitude to the donor, assuring that the facilities would be judiciously used and guide against any form of vandalisation.