Peter Obi@PeterObi
My activities yesterday all centred around the significance of Education in human capital development as I visited two unique educational institutions, an upcoming, but promising Divine Rays British School, Obosi and the legendary Dennis Memorial Grammar School, DMGS, Onitsha, all in Anambra State.
My first point of call was the young Divine Rays British School, Obosi, welcoming their new students, and the second was the celebrated Denis Memorial Grammar School, DMGS, Onitsha, which was commemorating its centenary.
The Divine Rays British School were celebrating the investiture of new students into the academic community. Along with old students, over 1500 pupils, I addressed them, encouraging them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to excellence.
This school holds a special place in my heart as the Principal, Mrs Ezeibeanu Stephanie Ozioma, was among the beneficiaries of the ₦1 million First-Class Graduate Award during my tenure as Governor of Anambra State. Seeing her today, leading an institution that continues to produce some of the nation’s best students and outstanding WAEC results, is inspiring. It is a testament to what happens when we invest in education and empower our young people with opportunities to succeed.
From Obosi I went to the DMGS where as Chairman
I presided over the Centenary Keynote Event of Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha, as the institution marked 100 years of remarkable existence.
The event was graced by the Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, The Most Rev. Henry C. Ndukuba, alongside distinguished alumni and members of the DMGS community.
This great institution has, over the past century, produced some of Nigeria’s most outstanding minds, individuals whose achievements have shaped our nation’s history and inspired generations. Among its proud alumni are Prof. Kenneth Dike, the first African and Nigerian Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan; Emmanuel Ifeajuna, the first Black African to win a gold medal at an international sports event; Engr. Emma Egbeoja, the nation’s first petroleum engineer; Prof. Herbert Kodilinye, Nigeria’s first Professor of Ophthalmology and ophthalmologist to the former Queen of England; Prof. Okonjo Iweala, the father of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Tim Menakaya, former Minister of Health, Chief S N Okeke renowned Quantity Surveyor and former Chairman of Police Service Commission, several Church of Nigeria Archbishops, Bishops, clergies, many others, reflecting the school’s enduring legacy of excellence.
I recall vividly the sorry state of the school following government takeover and management from 1970, and as Governor, I made a decisive decision, although I thought it was impossible, to return it, alongside several others, to the missionaries who founded and owned them.
Today, seeing DMGS celebrate a century of nurturing exceptional minds gives me immense joy and pride. It reminds us that education remains the foundation upon which every great society is built. We must continue to invest in it.
Education remains the most powerful tool for transformation. No nation can rise above the quality of its education. It is through the classroom that we shape minds, build character, and nurture citizens who will one day lead our country with integrity and vision. We must, therefore, continue to strengthen our educational systems and ensure that no child is left behind.
A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO
