- He commended Nigerians in the diaspora for maintaining strong ties with their communities and lauded the Lagosians of Chicago
- He said the decision to work on the school followed a recommendation from a councillor and a subsequent assessment
- The Lagosians of Chicago reaffirmed that their mission remains centred on using diaspora resources to support community development
The Lagosians of Chicago, a diaspora-based socio-cultural association, have completed a comprehensive renovation of Kuje Amuwo Nursery and Primary School in Amuwo-Olofin, Lagos, as part of efforts to support basic education at the community level.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the intervention attracted education officials, community leaders, parents, and pupils, with activities beginning with interfaith prayers led by representatives of the Muslim and Christian communities, followed by the singing of the national anthem in Yoruba, in line with the area’s midweek cultural tradition.
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The event was moderated by Honourable Rasheed Olusegun, who formally presented dignitaries in attendance, including the Chairman of Onade Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Honourable Rasaq Akorede Olojede.
Addressing the gathering, the council chairman praised the Lagosians of Chicago for responding to the school’s needs and described the project as a clear demonstration of meaningful community partnership.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, the chairman of Lagosians of Chicago explained that the group, which has been in existence for over 30 years, began its outreach through scholarship schemes before expanding into infrastructure development.
He said the decision to work on the school followed a recommendation from a councillor and a subsequent assessment that revealed several pressing challenges.
According to him, the association’s focus remains on giving back to society in practical ways, particularly in areas that directly impact children and future generations.
The programme also featured cultural performances by pupils, who displayed elements of Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa traditions, drawing applause from guests and reinforcing messages of unity and inclusion.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of Education in Amuwo-Olofin, Professor Amuwo, stressed the importance of collaboration between government and private organisations in improving public schools.
He commended Nigerians in the diaspora for maintaining strong ties with their communities and lauded the Lagosians of Chicago for prioritising education.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Lagosians of Chicago, Professor Dr Shaffdeen Amuwo, described the project as another step in the group’s long-standing commitment to educational development. He encouraged sustained mentorship for pupils and appreciated contributors who supported the initiative.
A former councillor, Mrs Oluwatosin, expressed emotional satisfaction with the project, noting that she once attended the school. She thanked the donors for transforming an institution that holds personal significance to her and many others in the community.
During the event, Honourable Olojede distributed learning materials to pupils, while the Headmistress, Mrs Esther Oluwayemisi, delivered a vote of appreciation. She said the intervention has renewed enthusiasm among teachers and pupils and significantly improved the school’s learning conditions.
One of the pupils also addressed the audience, thanking the organisation for creating a better environment for teaching and learning. The ceremony concluded with closing prayers and a photo session.
Providing further insight, the headmistress explained that the school previously lacked adequate furniture and teaching facilities, challenges that affected classroom delivery before the renovation.
Items provided and work carried out include new desks and chairs, whiteboards, renovated toilets, repainted classrooms, replaced doors, a functional sickbay, and a newly installed school signboard.
The Lagosians of Chicago reaffirmed that their mission remains centred on using diaspora resources to support community development, with education continuing to be a major focus of their interventions.
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