As part of the 50th founders’ anniversary celebration of Government College, Lagos, Surulere, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, inaugurated the state-of-the-art STEM Lab, funded and managed by the SAIL Empowerment Foundation. The foundation, led by Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, aims to enhance technological education for the youth.
In addition to the STEM Lab, Governor Sanwo-Olu also commissioned other landmark projects supported by Senator Abiru. These included the complete rehabilitation of the school’s 700-seater auditorium, the addition of 24 new toilets, five administrative offices, two large lecture halls, staff rooms, and student waiting areas. These projects were executed through the intervention of the office of the Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Senator Abiru, an alumnus of the school, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu for their commitment to quality education. He emphasized that this initiative is only the beginning, with plans to extend such opportunities to all of Lagos and, eventually, across Nigeria.
Reflecting on his family’s legacy, Abiru highlighted the importance of education, noting his father’s journey from Ikorodu to Surulere, and how it shaped his dedication to public service and educational development.
“Today, we face the challenge of restoring the pride of public education, which has declined significantly,” Senator Abiru said. He stressed the need for an inclusive education system that bridges the gap between public and private schools and prepares students for future challenges.
The SAIL Innovation Lab, in partnership with Co-Creation Hub, stands as a testament to his commitment. It provides a free, cutting-edge innovation center for students and teachers, focusing on modern teaching methodologies and equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in the 21st century.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Hon. Jimoh Alli-Balogun, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Basic Education, praised Senator Abiru for his human capital development initiatives. Other notable figures, including Rear Admiral Leye Jaiyeola (Rtd) and Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulure, were also acknowledged for their contributions to the school’s development.
The event featured a keynote lecture delivered by renowned intellectual property expert, Professor Bankole Shodipo, SAN, a fellow alumnus of the prestigious institution.