President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the remodelled Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle, Lagos, describing it as a landmark “school city” and a major investment in Nigeria’s human capital development.
Represented by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, the President delivered a message highlighting education as a central pillar of national growth, while also commissioning the upgraded Maracana Stadium, renamed in Tinubu’s honour, and virtually unveiling the Fresh Food Industrial Hub in Abijo, Ibeju-Lekki.
Speaking on behalf of Tinubu, Akpabio said the scale of the Tolu Schools Complex demonstrates what can be achieved through visionary leadership and sustained investment in education.
He said; “This project reflects a clear commitment to improving the lives of our young citizens,” he said. “When we invest in education, we invest in the future of our nation.”
In his message to students, Tinubu urged residents of the Ajegunke and environment to take full advantage of the opportunity. “This is your moment. Use it well. Learn with discipline and prepare for the responsibilities of the future,” he said.
While stressing that national progress depends on the quality of human capital, he emphasised that education must be treated as a driver of economic development.
“No nation can rise above the quality of its people. When we invest in our youth, we secure our future. We must continue to invest in education not just as a social service, but as a foundation for growth.
“By equipping our children with knowledge and practical skills, we prepare them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.” the President’s message added.
Akpabio also conveyed the President’s pride in Lagos State’s development trajectory, noting that Tinubu had directed him to witness the transformation firsthand.
“Mr President is proud of Lagos and its progress. This is what is possible when leadership is focused and consistent,” he said.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, in keynote speech, described the complex as a transformative intervention aimed at expanding access to quality education. “We are not merely commissioning buildings; we are fulfilling a covenant that no child will be denied the dignity of a world-class education,” Sanwo-Olu said, adding that the project represents a complete reimagining of public schooling in Lagos.
“This is not a facelift; it is a bold redefinition of what education should look like in a modern African city,” he said.
Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the complex symbolises opportunity and inclusion, noting that it comprises 36 schools, 16 senior secondary, 15 junior secondary and five primary schools.
Chairman of the Special Committee on the Rehabilitation of Public Schools, Hakeem Smith, explained that the project evolved into a full reconstruction after structural challenges were discovered.
“At some point, the student-to-classroom ratio became unsustainable, requiring a complete redesign,” he said.
Smith added that the new layout separates primary and secondary schools and includes vocational centres to cater to diverse student abilities. The complex features modern infrastructure, including laboratories, ICT hubs, vocational facilities, a health centre and extensive sports facilities.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, described the project as a milestone in the sector, saying: “This is a bold statement that Nigeria is investing decisively in the future of its children,” he said.
With capacity for over 20,000 students, the Tolu Schools Complex is expected to ease overcrowding and improve learning conditions in Ajegunle. The school, which was first built in 1981, has grown into a mega learning hub, positioning Ajegunle as a centre for inclusive and modern education in Lagos State.
