The Chairman of the Ago Iwoye Secondary School Old Students Association (AISSOSA) Platinum Anniversary Committee, Dr. Femi Bakre, has called on government at all levels to provide a more enabling environment for education, noting that insecurity and youth restiveness in the country are closely tied to lack of access to quality education.
Speaking during a press conference in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of Ago Iwoye secondary school on Thursday, Dr. Bakre said communities must understand the long-term implications of neglecting education.
According to him, many of the security challenges confronting the nation today could have been reduced if disadvantaged youths had equal opportunities.
He noted that while government support is crucial, alumni must not abandon their responsibilities.
“Government cannot do it alone. Charity, in some instances, must begin at home.Even when government patronage is insufficient, we must show ownership. Alumni have a major role to play and many of us are well-positioned to influence additional government support.”
Also speaking, the National President of AISSOSA, Dr. Taye Sogbesan, highlighted the pressure on Ogun State’s education system due to population overflow from Lagos.
He revealed that the state currently has over 500 secondary schools, a number he attributed to state's unique geographical closeness to Lagos.
“Government is trying but they cannot do more than what they can do, I’m also happy to announce to you Ago Iwoye secondary school in the last six months have been upgraded to a flagship status . What it mean is that from the scarce resources of government, when interventions are going to be executed this flagship school will be priority.
“As we speak today , about 30 secondary schools are been refurbished providing them with laboratories, about 8 technical colleges been provided with machineries, and classrooms, if this schools have been upgraded about six months ago, we would be one of the beneficiaries but I can assure you that in the next round of intervention we would be there.
He praised the emotional attachment driving the old students to invest heavily in the school. According to him, the association has outlined five to six major projects, including a complete renovation of the Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories.
He added that the labs will receive new flooring, furniture, and equipment, with chemicals and tools worth ₦15 million already procured ahead of commissioning saying that the next phase will focus on overhauling the school library.
“We want the students to see these projects and learn the spirit of giving back,” he added.
Meanwhile, AISSOSA Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yomi Ogunsanu, appealed to the school management to ensure students understand the value of the facilities being provided.
“These things cost us a lot of money. There must be discipline. Students should never vandalize the hall or any facility. Anyone who does will face consequences,” he warned.
Mr. Ogunsanu further urged government not to leave the burden of running the school entirely to the alumni, stressing that authorities must continue to deliver on their responsibilities.
He added that beyond structural upgrades, the association is keen to see measurable improvements in students’ academic performance.
“We don’t want to beautify the school alone, we want to see results in their academics,” he said.
Day Two – Friday, November 28, 2025
Career Talk featuring a seasoned professional engaging students on future career paths
Day Three – Saturday, November 29, 2025 Inter-religious thanksgiving service, Awards to distinguished alumni and stakeholders, Grand anniversary party and reunion.
Dr. Bakre appealed to all alumni both in Nigeria and abroad to join the fundraising drive aimed at executing critical infrastructure upgrades.
“The 70th anniversary is more than a celebration, it is a homecoming. It is a chance to reconnect, reflect, and recommit to our school’s future. With the commitment AISSOSA is known for, this celebration will be a resounding success,” he said.
