By Fatima Saka
ABEOKUTA — The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has described Abeokuta Grammar School as a “monument of vision, sacrifice and perseverance,” underscoring its enduring contribution to Nigeria’s human capital development since its establishment in 1908.
Salako stated this while delivering the 118th Founders’ Day Anniversary Lecture of the school in Abeokuta, Ogun State, themed “Honouring Our Foundations, Building Our Future: From Classroom to Relevance.”
Highlighting the institution’s rich legacy, he noted that the school has produced globally renowned figures such as Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, foremost health reformer Prof. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, and Afrobeat icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, among others.
The minister used the occasion to call for sustained and strategic investment in education, urging governments at all levels, particularly the Ogun State Government, to prioritise funding and development of public schools.
According to him, the returns on investment in education are evident in the calibre of leaders produced across sectors, adding that institutions like Abeokuta Grammar School remain critical to national development.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Salako recounted how the discipline and values instilled in him at the school shaped his career in medicine, public health and governance.
He also highlighted achievements in the health sector under his leadership, including increased utilisation of primary healthcare services, expansion of medical school admissions, and improved health insurance coverage for over 21 million Nigerians.
Addressing students, the minister challenged them to uphold the school’s motto, “Primus et Solus” (First and Only), by striving for excellence and demonstrating integrity and leadership.
“Nigeria does not need more certificates, but more character. The question for each of you is simple: what kind of leader will you be?” he said.
Salako further urged alumni to give back to the institution through mentorship, scholarships and infrastructure support, noting that preserving the school’s legacy requires collective commitment.
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He also charged teachers to remain steadfast in shaping not just the intellect but also the character of students entrusted to their care.
Abeokuta Grammar School, founded in 1908, is one of Nigeria’s oldest secondary institutions, renowned for producing leaders across diverse fields.
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