Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria — Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has warned that countries that fail to prioritise education risk economic stagnation and long-term underdevelopment.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Friday, March 13, 2026, during the inauguration of newly renovated and fully equipped Chemistry and Biology laboratories at African Church Grammar School, located in the Apata Ganga area of Ibadan in southwestern Nigeria.
The modern laboratory facilities were donated by Adefisayo Oduwole, a member of the school’s 1976 alumni set. The project forms part of activities marking the institution’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Speaking during the ceremony, Obasanjo emphasised the importance of continuous learning and encouraged citizens and private individuals to support educational development across the country.
“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.”
Okay News reports that the former Nigerian leader described the donation as a meaningful contribution to improving science education and creating better learning conditions for students.
According to him, strengthening school infrastructure, particularly laboratories used for scientific research and practical learning, will help improve the quality of education and prepare young people for careers in science and technology.
Obasanjo also said the donor deserved recognition for supporting his former school and urged other alumni and philanthropists across Nigeria to contribute to the development of educational institutions.
“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.
He further advised the school’s leadership to ensure that the renovated laboratories are properly maintained and adequately secured so that future generations of students can benefit from them.
During the event, 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, acknowledged the growing role of private citizens and organisations in supporting public education.
Olayiwola said such contributions complement government efforts to improve schools across the state.
“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 the education sector through reforms and infrastructure development.
Also speaking at the event was Deji Adeleke, the Pro-Chancellor of Adeleke University, who praised Oduwole for supporting his alma mater and urged other well-meaning individuals to contribute to the growth of educational institutions.
In a separate interview during the ceremony, the benefactor explained that the project was designed to motivate students to pursue careers in science and other professional fields.
“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.
Oduwole also said the alumni group would collaborate with the school administration to ensure the laboratories remain in good condition.
“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, thanked the 1976 alumni set for the donation and encouraged current students to adopt the same spirit of giving back to their former institutions in the future.
