The Ogun State Government has commended the Imala Community Grammar School Old Students Association, popularly known as IMACOGOLD for constructing a block of six-toilets to combat open defecation and improve sanitation in the 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 school’s 45th anniversary on Saturday.
He emphasized that the project aligned with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to ending open defecation in the state.
“Such impactful interventions are tangible proof of your selfless commitment to improving the well-being of current and future students of this school,” Onasanya said.
“Adequate sanitary facilities are fundamental to creating a conducive learning environment, improving student health, and curbing the spread of preventable diseases.”
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 hitherto used the bush to defecate, which exposed them to dangers, including kidnapping, and provided opportunities to leave school premises under false pretenses.
“When we inspected the school, there were no toilets, water, or fence, and classrooms were in disrepair,” Akintunde said.
“We prioritized toilets because securing the students was paramount. Without proper facilities, students risk exposure to diseases and other dangers.”
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, Ọba Moses Adegboyega, represented by Deacon Olusegun Bankole, a former Permanent Secretary, praised the initiatives, stating that it would improve hygiene, reduce pollution, and eliminate safety concerns.
“This project addresses the fear of students being kidnapped and prevents disease outbreaks caused by open defecation,” he noted.
Mrs. Oshodi Olawunmi, a trader and parent, urged students and parents to appreciate the project.
“This is a vital step toward ensuring the safety and hygiene of our children,” she added.
The Principal of the school, Mr. Yusuf Adekunle expressed gratitude to IMACOGOLD for the projects, appealing for further support to renovate the dilapidated science laboratory.
Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele Ph.D., a former Ogun State Assembly member and guest speaker, urged youths to change their perception of education, noting that corruption, not education, was the root of the system’s challenges.
Speaking on the theme “School is a Scam”: Metamorphosis, Reality and Rearmament, Dr. Ogundele identified the root causes of the wrong perception of the youth to include the erosion of value, diversion of attention to the intangible, and get-rich-quick syndrome.
The event also featured an award presentation to 10 outstanding IMACOGOLD members, including Rtd. Navy Captain Tajudeen Osoba, Evangelist Deborah Soroye from the UK, Ven. Amos Adebayo CoN, ACI Kayode Adedigba, and Mr. Sunday Adeyemi of the Nigerian Television Authority.
A rally to raise awareness on the 45th Anniversary of the school preceeded the celebration.
