A group of Isara Remo indigenes based in the United States, Afotamodi USA, has donated educational materials worth over N45m to 350 students newly admitted to public secondary schools in Ogun State’s Remo North Local Government Area.
The donations, which include school uniforms, bags, sandals, exercise books, and other writing materials, were distributed to students from 14 public primary schools in Isara and neighboring villages.
These students had recently passed their common entrance examinations and are set to begin their Junior Secondary School education for the 2024/2025 academic session.
Under the leadership of Mr Leke Adesoye, the group has undertaken this initiative to support their community amid Nigeria’s economic challenges, ensuring that the education of these young students remains uninterrupted.
The group’s Education/Scholarship Committee, comprising Mr Kunle Oyefusi, Dr. Yemi Adeyiga, Mrs Sola Akisanya-Akinbo, Mrs Yetunde Adesanya, and Deacon Segun Idowu, worked diligently to realise this project with the support of other association members.
At the handover ceremony held on Thursday at Afotamodi Hall, Isara Remo, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and retired Principal of United High School, Ikenne Remo, Mr Adekunle Sojimi, praised the donors.
He described them as “patriots and worthy ambassadors of Isara Remo, Ogun State, and Nigeria.”
Sojimi emphasised the importance of investing in education, stating, “Investing in the education of our youth is investing in a prosperous nation. No nation can achieve significant progress without quality education.”
He continued, “We must continue to appreciate these great sons and daughters who have made this substantial sacrifice to support our students as they transition into secondary school. This association believes that no child in Isara Remo should be deprived of education due to a lack of basic supplies.”
The former principal also noted the group’s previous contributions, including refurbishing buildings at St. Peter Primary School, Isara Remo, and providing educational materials to 60 students at St. Peter Primary School, Jowoje.
Sojimi urged other community members to contribute to Isara Remo’s socio-economic development.
The Odemo of Isara, represented by Otunba Adesoye Sobowale, Oba Adebose Mayungbe, commended the association for their timely and impactful intervention.
Oba Mayungbe acknowledged the harsh economic conditions and encouraged continuous efforts to support the community’s growth.
He advised the students to honor the association’s generosity by focusing on their studies and striving to achieve greatness, like Prof. Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s first Nobel Laureate from their community.
Mayungbe also urged parents to prioritize their children’s education and limit distractions.
Education Secretary of the local government, Mr Patrick Idowu, expressed appreciation for Afotamodi USA’s support in enhancing the quality of education in the area.
On behalf of the parents, Mrs Bolanle Ajewole conveyed deep gratitude, highlighting the timely nature of the support amidst rising costs. She said, “The parents of these children cannot find the right words to express our joy and appreciation. This support comes at a crucial time, and we are deeply thankful to Afotamodi USA. May God continue to bless their endeavors.”