As part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration, the Councillor representing Ward 4 in Ijebu Ode Local Government, Hon. Jamiu Kolawole Adebukanla (Parto), organized an educational excursion for primary school learners to Abeokuta, providing them with firsthand exposure to the state’s rich cultural heritage and modern transportation infrastructure.

The excursion, which brought together learners from Otubu Memorial Primary School and Joke Taiwo Primary School, Apebi, featured visits to two notable landmarks in Ogun State — Olumo Rock and the Prof. Wole Soyinka Train Station at Laderin, Abeokuta.

Speaking during the trip, Hon. Adebukanla described the initiative as part of efforts to broaden the educational experience of young learners beyond the classroom and inspire them through practical learning opportunities.

The excursion commenced at Olumo Rock, one of Nigeria’s foremost historical and tourist attractions. There, the pupils were introduced to the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and the history of the Egba nation. They learned about prominent historical figures such as Lisabi and Sodeke, as well as the origins and contributions of the four major Egba groups — Owu, Gbagura, Ake, and Oke-Ona.

The educational tour later moved to the Prof. Wole Soyinka Train Station, where learners gained practical knowledge about Nigeria’s modern railway transportation system. The pupils were educated on the operations of the rail network and how commuters can conveniently travel between Lagos, Abeokuta, and Ibadan within a relatively short period. 

The visit was deliberately included to enhance the learners’ understanding of transportation infrastructure and its significance to national development.

Hon. Adebukanla expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Ijebu Ode Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), and the headteachers of the participating schools — Mrs. Adeusi E.A. of Otubu Memorial Primary School and Mrs. Oso I.O. of Joke Taiwo Primary School — for their support and cooperation.

He also thanked parents and learners for their confidence in his leadership and commitment to educational development.

Special recognition was given to Pastor Afuye of Jesus for Evangelical Ministry for providing transportation support through the Coastal Bus, while Ambassador Paul Goodness Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Fountline Company Limited and Founder of Fountline Kids Foundation, was commended for fully sponsoring the excursion.

The councillor further acknowledged the contribution of his wife, Hon. (Mrs.) Modupe Oluwakemi Adebukanla, who provided refreshments for the learners and participants throughout the trip.

He also praised the efforts of his team members, Mr. Lekan Salami, Manager of Parto Farms and Agro Services Limited, and Mr. Lawal Wasiu, the Field Officer, for their dedication and support, which contributed significantly to the success of the programme.

The excursion concluded successfully, with all participants returning safely. Hon. Adebukanla gave thanks to Almighty God for a hitch-free journey and reiterated his commitment to initiatives that promote educational growth, cultural awareness, and community development among young learners.