The atmosphere at African Grammar School, Oka-Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State was filled with excitement on Friday as the Ayoko family commissioned and handed over multimillion-naira Science and ICT Laboratories to the school.
The facilities, named after the late Chief Solomon Agbejimi Ayoko and Mrs. Bolanle Funmilola Ayoko-Olabinjo, are fully furnished with modern learning equipment aimed at enhancing science and technology education.
While commissioning the projects on November 28, 2025, the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Adebori Adeleye (OON), hailed the donation as a profound legacy honouring their late father, who served as a teacher in the school for years. He emphasised that the gesture reflects the vital role of private individuals in complementing government efforts to uplift society.
“It is a challenge to other students who have passed through this school to come out and do something because it is a legacy that will last forever. The government cannot do everything alone, and this is what everybody should do to assist the government,” the monarch said, applauding the family for also establishing a trust fund for the upkeep of the laboratories.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ayoko-Olabinjo said the vision for the projects was inspired by biblical teachings on generosity, referencing Luke 3:10–11.
“These verses remind us that generosity is a responsibility. That blessings become meaningful only when shared. And that the true measure of wealth lies in how we uplift others. It is on this biblical foundation that today’s celebration of giving back to the community is built,” she stated.
She described the laboratories as long-term investments in the educational advancement of young people and the future of Oka-Akoko.
“These are embodiments of dreams, sacrifices, and the deep love of the Ayoko family for the great Oka town as a way of honoring our father. And it is both emotional and deeply fulfilling. And I know that if he were here today, he would be smiling with deep satisfaction,” she added.
Mrs. Ayoko-Olabinjo explained that the ICT centre, originally planned as a 30-seater hall, was expanded into a 100-seater ultra-modern digital hub equipped with high-speed internet, laptops, air-conditioning, a staff room, backup server, and solar power for uninterrupted learning.
“It is also equipped to serve as a JAMB-accredited CBT centre, so that our children here in Oka will no longer have to travel down to go and write examinations. This is the kind of equal opportunity learning environment that Lagos people enjoy. So we want to start enjoying it in Oka,” she noted.
She further announced the establishment of a trust fund to ensure the long-term preservation of the facilities, as well as arrangements with the school to secure annual posting of Corps members specialising in relevant subjects.
“This will ensure that these facilities are not only beautiful but fully utilized for meaningful academic growth,” she said.
Expressing gratitude to the Olubaka for his support throughout the project, she urged the school and community to make responsible use of the laboratories.
“Let these centers become hubs of excellence, places where students dream boldly, learn diligently, and prepare for future fields with promise… May these facilities transform lives, raise leaders, and inspire greatness for decades to come,” she said, while also paying tribute to her mother and appreciating her siblings for their support.
A respected community elder, Colonel Omowa Ola Rowland, commended the late patriarch of the Ayoko family for his integrity and lauded his children’s commitment to community development. He announced a financial donation to the trust fund and praised the school’s 1981 set for leading by example.
The Tutor-General for Ondo North Senatorial District, Mr. Sanmi Ajimuda, who was taught by the late Chief Ayoko, said the educator’s values shaped countless lives. He described the family’s gesture as a reflection of their father’s philosophy of spending where necessary rather than hoarding wealth. He urged the PTA and alumni to support the government by providing additional personnel, including ICT experts, to ensure effective management of the facilities.
