The Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr. Abdul Hakeem Shittu, on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, commissioned a newly constructed block of classrooms at African Bethel Primary School, Ota-Ona, Ikorodu, in a landmark event that underscored the unwavering commitment of the Ikorodu Local Government to quality basic education.
The legacy project, a product of visionary leadership and community-driven governance, was facilitated by the outgoing Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Ayodeji Adesina.
The project consists of a block of four modern classrooms equipped with a toilet system.
According to Council Engineer Mr. Oladapo Oluseyi, the construction was completed within a span of six months and aligns with best practices for basic education infrastructure.
The commissioning of the school forms part of a week-long project commissioning scheme initiated by Hon. Adesina to mark the end of his tenure in office.
The initiative began with the commissioning of the Jeitan Ultra-Modern Mini Market at Ota-Ona, strategically located along Obafemi Awolowo Road.
This was followed by the formal inauguration of the 346-metre Adekayaoja-Solomade Road project, an event graced by the paramount ruler of Ikorodu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, before culminating in this educational legacy at African Bethel Primary School.
Delivering his keynote address at the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Wasiu Adesina emphasized the administration’s belief in education as the foundation of sustainable development.
“We are not just building schools,” Adesina said, “we are building hope, opportunity, and a foundation for a greater Ikorodu.”
He noted that the project was born out of necessity, with rising student enrollment and deteriorating infrastructure demanding urgent intervention.
The new classrooms, he stressed, are designed to provide a conducive learning environment that fosters academic excellence and future leadership.
“Today, we unveil more than just a building. We unveil the dreams of our children, the hopes of parents, and the commitment of a government that understands the power of education,” he added.
In his goodwill message, LASUBEB Chairman Dr. Abdul Hakeem Shittu hailed the project as a vital contribution to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus agenda, particularly in the area of educational development.
He also commended Hon. Adesina’s integrity and vision.
“As custodians of our children’s future, we must stand by them with the right support system. This project symbolizes integrity and responsiveness, values that define impactful governance,” Shittu remarked.
Education Secretary of the Ikorodu Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), Alhaji Taiwo Odumbo, offered a personal reflection, revealing that he was once a pupil of the same school.
“It is very ironic and emotional that my first official assignment as Education Secretary is to witness this transformation in a school that shaped my early years. This project is a beacon of hope,” he said.
Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Aarebirin Hon. (Dr.) Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba echoed the sentiment that the project is a fulfilled promise.
“It’s not about promise made, but promise kept. So many legends have passed through this school, and this is a worthy investment in its legacy,” she noted.
Representing the community, CDC Secretary Alhaji Lookman Sonibare stated that the Chairman had consistently commissioned impactful projects throughout his tenure.
“He is signing out in the most historic and remarkable way,” he said.
The headmistress of African Bethel Primary School, Mrs. Fatola Abosede Mary, expressed deep gratitude for the transformation.
“This is a promise fulfilled. Our pupils now have a conducive learning space. We are truly grateful,” she said.
Spiritual and traditional blessings also graced the occasion. The Grand Chief Imam of Ikorodu Division, His Eminence Sheikh Seifudeen Ademoritan Ayinla Olowooribi, offered prayers and lauded the council chairman’s legacy of service.
Chief Olukayode Olomo, the Baale of Ojogbe, went further by describing Hon. Wasiu Adesina as the gold standard of local government leadership.
“In Ikorodu, there are only two categories of local government chairmen — Hon. Adesina and others,” he quipped.
In closing, Hon. Adesina urged all stakeholders—teachers, parents, pupils, and the broader community—to protect the new facility and ensure it serves its purpose for generations to come.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the good work already done by the local government. It is not the end, but the foundation for many more transformative milestones. Our promise remains clear: WADESH is working, and future administrations will build on this progress. Ikorodu is on the rise,” he concluded to resounding applause.
INN-HOUSE☆ 