It was a historic day for the people of Epe Federal Constituency on Thursday, August 21, 2025, as the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, declared open three new schools facilitated by Rep. Wale Raji at Oko-Abe, Ilege, and Owu-Ikosi.
Represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, kakalistiq.com reports that Hon. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, the Deputy Governor, described the project as a monumental step toward building the future of Lagos.
“Today is a day of joy, one we must feel with a sense of elation about the commissioning of these new classrooms facilitated by Rep. Wale Raji,” he said.
Dr. Hamzat explained that the new school buildings were not just physical structures but symbols of opportunity, hope, and progress.
“These new buildings are more than just bricks and mortar, they are sanctuaries for learning. They represent our commitment to providing a safe and conducive environment for learning, free from overcrowding and distractions. These classrooms are a promise, a promise that their futures matter to us,” he added.
The Deputy Governor emphasized that investment in education is the most enduring legacy any government can give its people.
“Education is the great equalizer, the engine room of economic growth, and the bedrock of a civilized society. The foundation for development is education, and an educated populace is a healthy, productive, and innovative one,” he stated.
Turning to teachers and administrators, he urged them to make the best use of the facilities.
“A building alone does not make a school; it is the spirit within its walls that truly matters. These gifts are tools, please use them to inspire and build the next generation of Nigerians,” he appealed.
He also challenged the students to embrace the opportunity before them.
“This is the harbor of early knowledge, built with your future in mind. Please study hard, be disciplined, and aim for excellence in all you do. To whom much is given, much is expected, make us proud,” he told them.
The Deputy Governor called on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to take ownership of the schools, stressing that partnership was key to sustaining progress.
“Your son has shown us what he’s capable of; please, keep supporting him. Help us sustain this investment by being interested in how it is being used,” he said, referring to Rep. Raji.
Dr. Hamzat reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous investment in education through teacher training, welfare, technology, and curriculum development. “We’re building a holistic system that leaves no child behind. What we are doing here today is a pointer to how much partnership can accomplish,” he said.
Concluding his address, the Deputy Governor commended Rep. Wale Raji for his dedication.
“This is representation in another great form. Indeed, you’ve done well my brother. I am optimistic that the future is bright for our students,” he declared.
Dignitaries at the event included Lagos APC GAC Member and Epe Divisional Political Leader, Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu, represented by Hon. Ahmed Seriki; Rep. Bayo Balogun of Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency; Hon. Adebola Shabi of the Lagos Assembly; Pro-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State, Alhaja Azeezat Raji; Epe LG Chairman Princess Surah Animashaun represented by her Vice, Hon. Sikiru Owolomoshe; Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Chairman, Otunba Wale Anomo; Lekki LCDA Chairman, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali; and the TG/PS Education District III, Dr. Idowu Oyetola.
Royal Fathers present included HRM Oba Taiwo Gbadamosi, the Onito-Omu of Ito-Omu; HRM Oba Babatunde Asumo, the Alayandelu of Odo-Ayandelu; HRM Oba Nelson Ogunlari, the Olowu of Owu-Ikosi; HRM Oba Elias Omoloro, the Olota of Ota-Ikosi; HRM Oba Nureni Alugbin, the Oniladaba of Ladaba; HRM Oba Adeleke Akibu, the Onilepia of Lepia; alongside the Baales of Oko-Abe and Ilege. They hailed the initiative as a turning point for education in the Epe Division.
