At the 80th Anniversary of Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, themed “Inspiring the Future,” Lagos Deputy Governor Hamzat emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to rethink and invest in basic education to stay competitive globally. He described secondary education as more than a transitional phase; it is crucial for shaping future leaders and molding character.
Hamzat urged collaboration among private sector stakeholders, development partners, and community leaders to create a forward-looking secondary education system. He asserted that education should be viewed as vital for national security and leadership development.
Highlighting the importance of a strong educational foundation for leadership potential, he stated that a nation can only rise as high as the quality of its education. He also called for secondary education to instill values such as resilience, accountability, and moral discipline in students, as modern leadership requires empathy, foresight, and technological proficiency.
In Lagos State, the government prioritizes education as a key driver of economic mobility, as outlined in its T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, which focuses on transforming secondary education through strategic investments. Hamzat concluded that the goal is to cultivate holistic leaders equipped to address challenges and communicate effectively.
Hamzat urged universities and think tanks to actively participate in curriculum development and research, advocating for the inclusion of leadership development, ethics, and public speaking in all secondary school programs.
During the event, Dr. Wale Okediran, President of the Olivet Old Students Association (NOSA), highlighted how Olivet Baptist High School has successfully combined academic excellence with character development. He praised the school’s comprehensive approach, which is reflected in its achievements in academics, sports, and leadership training.
Dr. Olusegun K. Ahmadu, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the anniversary, described the celebration as a tribute to transformation and legacy, encouraging alumni to reconnect with the school and support its future endeavors.The event concluded with awards presented to distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to society in various fields.