The community of Temu in Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA came alive with celebration as students, educators and dignitaries gathered to mark the valedictory ceremony of Temu Community Junior Secondary School, a milestone made possible by years of determined advocacy and legislative support.
EpeInsights reports that the ceremony served not only as a celebration of academic achievements but as a powerful reminder of what community-driven development can accomplish.
Central to this progress has been the role of Hon. Wale Raji, the Member of the House of Representatives representing Epe Federal Constituency.
In his address, Hon. Raji recounted the school’s humble beginnings in 2021.
With no public school in the area at the time, children were forced to walk long distances to access education, resulting in widespread dropout rates and hardship.
Moved by a passionate appeal from the community youth leader, Mr. Ibrahim Jaiyesimi (Gberefu), Raji spearheaded the establishment of the school, which officially opened in 2022.
“Today, those days are behind us. The seed we planted has grown and is now bearing fruit,” he stated.
To expand capacity, a 12-classroom block project is currently underway and expected to be completed before the next academic session in September.
The facility will be fully furnished and designed to accommodate the growing student population.
While highlighting these achievements, Raji also addressed a lingering concern, the absence of a primary school in the community.
He explained that an earlier effort to build one had been stalled due to a land dispute. Despite this, he reaffirmed his commitment to the project.
“We’re ready to deliver a primary school,” he assured.
“The only setback is land. Once the community provides an unencumbered parcel, construction can begin.”
He thanked former Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo, for her support in fast-tracking approvals for educational development in the area, and he praised the school’s principal, Mrs. Akinrinmade, alongside her team for their dedication to academic excellence.
A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when two students, Daniela and Ngam Onyx, were recognized for a recent viral video showcasing their exceptional debate skills.
Their performance captured public attention and impressed Hon. Dolapo Badru, Leader of the Lagos State Caucus in the House of Representatives, who gifted each student ₦50,000 to support their academic pursuits.
The event was attended by local leaders, educators, legislative aides and residents, all of whom united in celebration of the progress made and the path ahead.
In a touching finale, the graduating class presented a commemorative portrait frame and a Leadership Award to Hon. Wale Raji, symbols of gratitude from a community witnessing transformation through education and leadership.
“We are just getting started, with continued partnership, we will build an even stronger foundation for Temu’s future.” Raji concluded. 
