Kakalistiq.com reports that the Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr. Hakeem Shittu, in a significant stride towards enhancing education in Lagos communities, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to educational development, a core pillar of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the historic town of Ito-Ikin, Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, during the groundbreaking ceremony for a new 12-classroom-story building, Dr. Shittu emphasized the transformative impact this project will have on the community.
“Our Governor and his deputy are dedicated to enhancing education in communities throughout Lagos State, guided by the Education and Technology pillar of the THEMES+ agenda. The groundbreaking ceremony for this historic building marks a transformative moment for the educational landscape of this community and its children.
“It is truly heartening to see the Lagos State government’s commitment to education take root in the Ito-Ikin community. On behalf of the LASUBEB leadership and the entire Ito-Ikin community, as well as the Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Governor,” Dr. Shittu stated.
The ceremony, attended by the Chairman of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, Akogun Wale Raji Anomo, Epe LGEA Education Secretary, Hon. Aliu Shittu (SAICO), LASUBEB officials, and other stakeholders, reiterated the importance of community cooperation for the project’s success.
Dr. Shittu extended his appreciation to the engineer from UBEC who travelled from Abuja and also to Hon. Wale Raji Anomo. He called on the community to support the project, stressing that vigilance is needed to prevent theft of materials, which could stall progress.
“The project is for the community, though from the government, but for the people. The Governor and his deputy have provided this opportunity to erect the structure as promised under the THEMES+ agenda,” Dr. Shittu noted. “Basic education, from primary to basic 9, is critical for the nation’s survival. Pupils must have a solid primary education as a foundation for higher education.”
He echoed the contractor’s appeal for support and assured that the community must protect the project, which could have been allocated elsewhere but was destined for Ito-Ikin. The project promises socio-economic opportunities for local youth and skilled workers, with substantial educational benefits for children.
“The delivery timeline will be met if the community cooperates with the contractors. Previous conflicts over land have caused similar projects to be moved to other communities. Therefore, any issues must be directed to the Chairman and Engineer Ahmed for resolution,” Dr. Shittu advised.
He further assured that with the takeoff of the junior school building, potential plans for a senior school building will be considered over time. He added that his leadership, which has facilitated programs related to Arabic education in Ito-Ikin and Epe, promises to be a beacon of educational and community advancement.
Highlighting Ito-Ikin’s rich history with the Ogun-Osun River Basin, Dr. Shittu stated that the secondary school project is another significant milestone. He urged the community to approach it with caution and foresight for the future of their children and generations to come.
