The Shams-el-Deen Grammar School Ikorodu Old Students’ Association (SGSI-OSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth and development of its alma mater with the commissioning of a new main gate, renovated security post and remodeled school fence at Shams-el-Deen Grammar School, Ikorodu.

The project, completed within two and a half weeks, was commissioned on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District II, Mr. Sanni Omotayo Layemo, who commended the association for complementing the Lagos State Government’s efforts in improving educational infrastructure.

Welcoming guests to the event, Chairman of the SGSI-OSA Board of Trustees, Alhaji Murisik, described the project as the association’s way of giving back to the institution that shaped the lives of its members.

According to him, the school provided members with knowledge, discipline and character, making it imperative for the association to contribute to its continued growth. He appreciated members, donors and the planning committee for their collective support in making the project a reality, assuring that the association would continue to execute impactful projects for the school.

In his keynote address, Mr. Layemo said government alone cannot transform the education sector, stressing that education is the collective responsibility of government, alumni associations, parents, communities and other stakeholders.

He noted that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat recognises that government cannot do it alone, adding that stakeholder participation remains critical to achieving quality education in the 21st century.

Layemo described old students’ associations as key partners in educational development, noting that many institutions around the world continue to thrive because of the strong support they receive from their alumni. He said SGSI-OSA had demonstrated leadership by investing in the future of its alma mater.

He described the new entrance as a significant landmark, noting that the entrance of any institution creates the first impression for visitors and reflects its vision and aspirations.

While commending the association for the project, Layemo urged members not to relent, saying there was still much to be done in transforming the school through modern classrooms and facilities that would equip students with 21st-century learning experiences and skills.

He also encouraged members to mobilise more alumni to contribute to future projects, irrespective of the size of their donations, stressing that collective commitment would ensure sustained development of the institution. He congratulated the association and assured them of the Lagos State Government’s continued support for initiatives that promote quality education.

Speaking at the ceremony, elder statesman Bashorun Rotinwa recalled that Shams-el-Deen Grammar School was established by the Shams-el-Deen Society before it was later handed over to the Lagos State Government.

He expressed delight that the institution has continued to grow over the years and commended the old students for returning to invest in the school’s development. He also praised the management for maintaining a clean and conducive learning environment and expressed optimism that the institution would continue to produce engineers, governors, presidents and other distinguished leaders.

Former Chairman of the Board of Governors, Chief Tele Oduloye, reflected on his years of service in the education sector and acknowledged the immense contributions of Sheikh Yahya Oshoala to the beautification and development of the school during his tenure as principal.

He also highlighted his contributions to educational infrastructure across Lagos State, recalling his role in the establishment and development of Maya Grammar School, Yewa Grammar School, Gberigbe Grammar School and Bayeku Community Grammar School.

Chief Wasiu Alashe Itunmoja commended the old students for transforming the school’s entrance and encouraged them to sustain the momentum by reaching out to more alumni and stakeholders to support additional developmental projects that would further transform the institution.

Chief Imam of Oriwu Central Mosque, Sheikh Yahya Oshoala As-Samadani, who served as a teacher, Head of Educational Services and later principal of the school for nine years, attributed the commitment of the old students to the enduring values instilled in them during their years in the institution.

He recalled writing the school’s anthem, noting that its message of service to the nation and humanity has continued to inspire generations of students and alumni to remain committed to excellence and selfless service.

In her remarks, the Principal of Shams-el-Deen Senior Grammar School, Mrs. Kehinde Abdulsalam, expressed appreciation to the old students for transforming the school’s entrance.

She said the gate had been in a dilapidated condition when she assumed office as principal and disclosed that although she was informed of the association’s plan to renovate it, she was pleasantly surprised that the project was completed within just two weeks.

Describing SGSI-OSA as a dependable partner in the school’s development, she commended the association for its consistent interventions and, like Oliver Twist, appealed for more projects to further improve infrastructure and enhance teaching and learning in the school.

Speaking on behalf of the Planning Committee, the Chairman, Hon. Majekodunmi Ibrahim (Majek), expressed profound appreciation to the Board of Trustees, members of the association, donors, old students and other supporters for their unwavering commitment, generosity and cooperation throughout the execution of the project.

He said the successful completion of the new main gate, renovated security post and remodeled school fence demonstrated what could be achieved through unity of purpose and collective responsibility. According to him, every contribution, whether financial, material or moral, played a vital role in delivering the project.

Majek described the intervention as another milestone in the association’s commitment to giving back to its alma mater and urged members to sustain the spirit of unity that made the project possible. He also called on more alumni to actively participate in future developmental initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and creating a more conducive learning environment for students.

The Planning Committee comprised Hon. Majekodunmi Ibrahim (Chairman), Alhaji Rasheed Ogunaike (Vice Chairman), Mr. Adigun Taiwo (Secretary), Mr. Umar Abdul Hakeem, Mrs. Igbalaye Aishat and Mrs. Risikat Muftau.