Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has donated a fully equipped Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre to his alma mater, Odu Abore Memorial Primary School, Mushin, in commemoration of his 61st birthday.
EpeInsights reports that the facility, unveiled on Friday at the school premises, is part of Dr. Hamzat’s effort to give back to the community where he grew up.
According to him, the gesture was in fulfilment of a pledge he made during the school’s 80th anniversary celebration.
“During the 80th anniversary of this school some years back, we went round and then we saw that there is no ICT centre here. And I just thought that this is something that I can do for this school,” the Deputy Governor said.
“The motive behind my contribution is to let the children understand the need for the knowledge of ICT, which is where the world is. As a matter of fact, every child today must be computer-literate.”
Hamzat explained that his personal journey underscored the importance of technology, noting that ICT had shaped his career and accomplishments.
He added that for Africa to compete globally, children must be equipped with digital skills, stressing that ICT is the “common denominator” that gives young people a level playing field with their peers across the world.
The Deputy Governor further pointed out that while government has established ICT centres in many schools across Lagos, contributions from private individuals and alumni are crucial to complement official efforts.
He encouraged parents to focus on the positive uses of technology and ensure their children embrace ICT, dismissing sceptics who discourage its adoption.
In his goodwill message, Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, a member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), praised the Deputy Governor for his generosity. He urged pupils and staff of Odu Abore Memorial Primary School to preserve the facility and use it strictly for its intended purpose.
Similarly, Hon. Moses Fayinka, who represents Mushin Federal Constituency II in the House of Representatives, described the donation as a “strategic investment” in the future of pupils. He said the initiative reflects a genuine commitment to community development and acknowledged the vital role of ICT in today’s fast-changing digital world.
Delivering her welcome address, the Education Secretary of the Local Government Education Authority in Mushin, Princess Olufemi Akinlude, said the donation represents a “historic milestone” in Lagos State’s education journey. She stressed that ICT has become the foundation of modern education, business and governance, warning that any child who is not digitally compliant risks being left behind.
She added that the centre would equip pupils with practical computer skills, prepare them for higher education and future careers and enhance teaching and learning outcomes for teachers. “This Centre is not just a building of bricks and mortar. It is a gateway to opportunities, a hub for creativity, and a launchpad for innovation,” Akinlude said.
The ICT Centre is expected to serve both the school and the wider Mushin community, functioning as a training hub beyond the formal education system.
