Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has stressed that countries that neglect their education systems risk falling behind in development.
He made the statement on Friday, March 13, 2026, while inaugurating newly renovated Chemistry and Biology laboratories at African Church Grammar School in the Apata Ganga area of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in southwestern Nigeria.
The upgraded facilities were donated by Adefisayo Oduwole, a member of the school’s 1976 graduating set. The project was carried out as part of activities celebrating the school’s 50th anniversary.
Speaking during the event, Obasanjo emphasised that education should remain a lifelong pursuit and encouraged individuals to invest in improving learning institutions.
“What we are doing here today is unique and should be encouraged so that others can emulate it.
“I am a lover of education. Otherwise, what would I be doing at the age of 80 pursuing a PhD? There is no end to learning, and the more educated you are, the better you become.
“The day you stop learning, you start dying. Any investment in education is worthwhile.”
The former president said better educational infrastructure, particularly laboratories for science subjects, would improve the quality of teaching and help students develop practical knowledge in science and technology.
He described the donor’s gesture as commendable and urged other alumni and philanthropists to support schools across Nigeria.
“In a country like Nigeria, there are many areas of the education sector that need support. Enhancing laboratory facilities to improve science and technology education is a worthy contribution,” he said.
Obasanjo also advised the school management to maintain and properly secure the newly refurbished laboratories so they can serve future generations of students.
During the ceremony, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Segun Olayiwola, represented by Latifat Jimoh, the Zonal Director of the Ibadan Zonal Educational Inspectorate 3, said private individuals and organisations had continued to support public schools across the state.
According to him, such contributions complement government efforts in improving the education sector through infrastructure development and academic support.
“They have contributed to renovating school buildings, constructing libraries, providing essential facilities such as students’ restrooms, supplying computers and even supporting security services in schools. The present administration appreciates these contributions,” he said.
He added that the administration of Seyi Makinde remains committed to strengthening education through various reforms.
Also speaking, Deji Adeleke, the Pro-Chancellor of Adeleke University, praised Oduwole for giving back to his former school and encouraged others to follow the example.
In an interview after the event, Oduwole said the laboratories were built to motivate students to pursue professional careers in science and technology.
“The motive behind this gesture is to encourage the students to become professionals, scientists, developers and engineers of tomorrow. The aim is to provide them with a conducive learning environment,” he said.
He added that the alumni association would work with the school authorities to ensure that the laboratories are properly maintained.
“We want the students to protect the facilities, and we will also support their maintenance to ensure the environment remains conducive for learning,” he added.
Earlier, the school’s principal, Mojisola Tiamiyu, expressed appreciation to the 1976 alumni set for supporting the school and encouraged current students to adopt the same culture of giving back in the future.