Oba Abdulkabir Obalanlege, the Olota of Ota in Ogun State, has criticized the Federal Government’s proposed ban on students under 18 from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) exams. Speaking at the 15th Anniversary of Adedokun International Schools, Obalanlege argued that such a restriction would limit Nigerian children’s potential and hinder their ability to compete globally. He advised the government to adopt international best practices to improve the country’s education standards rather than imposing restrictions that could stifle young students’ opportunities.
He congratulated Mr Niyi Adedokun, the Founder of Adedokun International Schools, urging him to establish more schools across the state for the benefit of the residents.
In his response, Adedokun appreciated the Olota of Ota and presented him with an award for assisting the school to tackle the challenge encountered while erecting its buildings.
He urged the public to invest in Ota and its environs, saying that Obalanlege was always ready to help investors.
In his welcome address, Dr Mike Fatukasi, the Principal of the school, said that the school had achieved a significant milestone and excellence in education as it marked 15 years of existence.
“As you are aware, this year we are placed on number 17 amongst the best 25 secondary schools in Nigeria,” Fatukasi said.
Also, Mrs Patience Evans-Osabuohien, the Chairperson, Parents-Teacher Association of the School, Iyana Campus, urged the Federal Government to revisit and look into the decision on age limit.
Mrs. Patience Evans-Osabuohien urged the Federal Government not to prevent under-18 students from entering universities, warning that such a policy could push young people into bad gangs, potentially increasing the crime rate in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also reported that during the event, awards were presented to long-serving staff and individuals who contributed to the school’s development. NAN further noted that Adedokun International Schools, which started in September 2009 with 50 students, has since expanded to four additional campuses in Sango-Ota.
