The Oyo State Government has taken over a newly erected classroom block provided by the Raji and Owonikoko families for L.A. Primary School, Oke-Esa, Iseyin, as part of efforts to enhance teaching and learning facilities in the state.
The project, dedicated to the memory of Alhaji Kazeem Omosalewa Owonikoko, was inaugurated by Governor Seyi Makinde and subsequently transferred to the state authorities for the school’s use.
The initiative demonstrates the families’ commitment to promoting education and contributing to the improvement of public school infrastructure in their community.
During the event, Alhaji Ahmed Raji, SAN, praised Governor Makinde for his administration’s approach to governance, describing its policies as focused on the welfare of residents. He equally thanked the officials, traditional rulers and other attendees who honoured the occasion with their presence.
Raji appealed to the state government to transform the Iseyin campus of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) into a separate, fully established university. He noted that the development would create more opportunities for young people seeking tertiary education in Iseyin and surrounding areas.
He also recalled the school’s historical importance, explaining that it was founded in 1934. He said the decision to name the new structure after Alhaji Owonikoko was intended to preserve his memory and recognise the family’s longstanding appreciation of education.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, commended both families for supporting educational advancement through their donation.
Fagbemi also acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts to assist students under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which offers financial support to qualified students in tertiary institutions.
Speaking for the Owonikoko family, the Baamofin of Oke-Ogun, Chief Jelili Owonikoko, SAN, said their decision to provide the facility was inspired by their commitment to educational progress and community service.
He explained that his father was one of the school’s earliest students, adding that having the building named in his honour was a proud moment for the family.
Jelili also praised his brother, Professor Taofeek Owonikoko, for previous rehabilitation work carried out at the school. He expressed satisfaction with the improvements made to the learning environment.
On the LAUTECH campus in Iseyin, he recalled Governor Makinde’s earlier commitment to establishing the institution in the town and welcomed its subsequent progress towards independent status.
At the inauguration, Governor Makinde thanked the two families for investing in the education of younger generations. He urged other financially capable Nigerians to support public development through similar projects.
The governor explained that government resources alone could not meet every community need, emphasising the importance of partnerships between public authorities and private citizens.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent personalities, including Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Oyo State House of Assembly Speaker Debo Ogundoyin, Chief Niyi Akintola, SAN, and members of the Oke-Ogun Traditional Council, led by the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi.
The donation represents a collaborative effort to improve school facilities and strengthen educational opportunities for children in Oyo State.
