Comptroller Onyeka’s community outreach: A breath of fresh air at Ajegunle, Lagos school

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

Three months after the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) renovated Christ Assembly Nursery and Primary School, Ajegunle, Lagos, the institution’s staff and pupils have continued to show appreciation and care for the new facilities.

Comptroller Frank Onyeka,Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Port Command that provided the facilities during a recent inspection and follow-up visit was elated that the facilities have led to an increase in student enrollment, with pupils from other schools transferring to the institution due to its improved facilities, including an ICT room and playground.

During the assessment tour last Friday, the Tincan Customs boss expressed satisfaction over the preserving of the facilities and even adding value to them after the Command’s intervention, thanked school management.

Onyeka said, “In our environment, people tend to take things for granted, especially when it’s government. But this school is an exception. We met the toilets the way we left them, the ICT room is intact, and to my surprise, the headteacher went ahead to buy covers for the laptops we provided. That, for me, is most instructive.”

He also praised the school’s management for maintaining the sick bay and library, noting that both facilities were in active use and well-maintained.

Comptroller Onyeka reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining community-driven projects, aligning with the policy thrust of Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, which emphasizes collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.

“This initiative is a testament to our innovative approach. We’re redefining the role of Customs, making a positive impact on lives, and that’s truly remarkable,” he said.

Remi Williams, Education Secretary of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), commended the Command’s follow-up visit, describing it as a demonstration of genuine commitment to community development.

“It’s impressive to see their commitment to the project. They’re not just doing a one-off; they’ve genuinely invested in the community’s development. The school’s population had dwindled to 600, but with the new facilities, especially the ICT room and playground, we’re attracting students from other schools,” Remi Williams noted.

Esther Ogunfuyi, the Headmistress, described the renovation as transformational. “Learning has become a joy. Classrooms are no longer overcrowded, and students can focus on their studies. We’re registering new pupils daily, and our focus is on providing quality education, not profit. I’m truly blessed to lead this school.”

Teachers and pupils alike expressed excitement about the renovated environment, calling it inspiring and conducive to learning.

Comptroller Onyeka also visited Oba Moroof Oyekunle, the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, to pay homage and seek royal blessings, further demonstrating his commitment to community engagement.