In a landmark stride toward human capital development and inclusive growth, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated the newly transformed Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle, Lagos—now regarded as Africa’s largest integrated public school facility.
The commissioning, which formed part of the President’s second-day official visit to Lagos, highlighted a major milestone in the education sector under the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The extensive upgrade of the historic school cluster reflects a bold commitment to improving access to quality education, particularly in densely populated communities.
Located in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, the Tolu Schools Complex spans 11.73 hectares and comprises 36 public schools, all of which have undergone comprehensive rehabilitation under the supervision of the Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS). Once plagued by overcrowding and deteriorating infrastructure, the complex has now been reimagined into a modern educational hub designed to serve tens of thousands of students.
The project includes the construction of 12 new classroom blocks with 18 classrooms each, alongside the renovation of 24 existing school buildings. To further enhance learning outcomes, the facility is equipped with central science laboratories, a fully functional ICT centre, and a four-storey vocational and skills acquisition centre aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practical competence.
Describing the project as “exceptional and remarkable,” President Tinubu commended the Lagos State Government for its visionary leadership and dedication to youth development. He emphasized that investment in education remains a critical driver of economic growth and national progress, noting that empowering young people with knowledge and skills is essential for building a resilient and competitive society.
“Projects like this demonstrate what is possible when leadership is deliberate and focused,” the President stated, adding that education must remain central to national development strategies.
In addition to the school complex, the President also commissioned the newly developed Maracana Stadium, a sports facility comprising 19 mini-football pitches situated adjacent to the schools. The facility is expected to foster youth engagement, talent discovery, and community development through sports.
Further extending the scope of development, Tinubu virtually inaugurated a Mid-Level Fresh Food Hub in Abijo, located within the Eti-Osa axis. The initiative is designed to enhance food distribution systems, improve accessibility to fresh produce, and support the broader agricultural value chain in alignment with national food security goals.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the transformation of the Tolu Schools Complex as a “beacon of hope” for children and families in Ajegunle, underscoring the government’s resolve not to leave any community behind. He traced the history of the complex back to the late Lateef Jakande era, noting that the recent intervention represents a complete reimagining rather than a mere upgrade.
“What we have delivered is not just a facelift, but a total transformation of public education infrastructure—one that reflects the standards of a modern African city,” the Governor said.
The commissioning ceremony drew the presence of key government officials, including Godswill Akpabio, who represented the President, alongside the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat.
For many observers, the unveiling of the Tolu Schools Complex and associated projects signals a renewed commitment to people-centered governance—where infrastructure development directly impacts lives, strengthens communities, and secures the future of the next generation.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape, initiatives like this reinforce the critical role of education as a foundation for sustainable development and national prosperity.
