Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Government has commended the Imala Community Grammar School Old Students Association (IMACOGOLD) for constructing a six-block toilet facility to combat open defecation and improve sanitation at their alma mater in Abeokuta North Local Government Area.
The Head of Service of Ogun State, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, represented by the Permanent Secretary on Service Matters, Mr. Dipo Ogunfowora, lauded the initiative during the schoolโs 45th anniversary on Saturday.
He emphasized that the project aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodunโs commitment to ending open defecation in the state.
โSuch impactful interventions are tangible proof of your selfless commitment to improving the well-being of current and future students of this school,โ Onasanya said.
โAdequate sanitation facilities are fundamental to creating a conducive learning environment, improving student health, and curbing the spread of preventable diseases.โ
The National President of IMACOGOLD, Mr. Yemi Akintunde, explained that the toilet project was prioritized due to security concerns and hygiene needs. He noted that many students previously used the bush to defecate, which exposed them to dangers, including kidnapping, and provided opportunities to leave school premises under false pretenses.
โWhen we inspected the school, there were no toilets, water, or fences, and classrooms were in disrepair,โ Akintunde said.
โWe prioritized toilets because securing the students was paramount. Without proper facilities, students risk exposure to diseases and other dangers.โ
The association also embarked on other projects between 2021 and 2024, including tree planting, computer and printer donations, office renovations, and the provision of sporting materials.
The Omola of Imala, แปba Moses Adegboyega, represented by Deacon Olusegun Bankole, praised the initiative, stating that it would improve hygiene, reduce pollution, and eliminate safety concerns.
โThis project addresses the fear of students being kidnapped and prevents disease outbreaks caused by open defecation,โ he noted.
Mrs. Oshodi Olawunmi, a trader and parent, urged students and parents to appreciate the project.
โThis is a vital step toward ensuring the safety and hygiene of our children,โ she added.
The Principal of the school, Mr. Yusuf Adekunle, expressed gratitude to IMACOGOLD for the project, appealing for further support to renovate the dilapidated science laboratory.
Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele, a former Ogun State Assembly member and guest speaker, urged youths to change their perception of education, noting that corruption, not education, is the root of the systemโs challenges.
The event also featured an award presentation to 10 outstanding IMACOGOLD members, including retired Navy Captain Tajudeen Osoba, Evangelist Deborah Soroye from the UK, and Mr. Sunday Adeyemi of the Nigerian Television Authority.
A rally organized by students to raise awareness of the school concluded the celebration.