The Church of Jesus Christ Funds Construction of School Classrooms in Agoro, Nigeria

On December 18, 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, COAFRICA and Build-a-School Initiative in Africa (BASIA) officially handed over a newly constructed block of six classrooms, along with 120 school desks and various school supplies to the St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School in Agoro, Ogun State in Nigeria. The ceremony celebrated education and community empowerment, marking the culmination of a project completed in under three months.

The new classrooms significantly expand the capabilities of the school. Previously, the school had been trying to fit 14 classes into five classrooms. Students, administrators and parents are thrilled with the additional classrooms, desks and school supplies, recognizing the impact it will have on the children and their education.

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Elder Adeyinka Ojediran, first counselor in the Africa West Area Presidency, spoke at the ceremony and emphasized the Church’s longstanding mission to empower individuals through education. Reflecting on the Church’s presence in Nigeria since 1978, he explained, “The Church is a gospel of giving and empowerment.”

Drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus Christ, Elder Ojediran highlighted the importance of intellectual growth, moral development and favor with God and fellow humans. He concluded by inviting teachers to nurture the students academically and morally so that they could become successful ambassadors for their community and the school.

High Chief Dayo Oduntan (Baale), the traditional ruler of Agoro, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Build-a-School Initiative in Africa (BASIA), COAFRICA and the Church of Jesus Christ. He highlighted the school’s historical significance, having been established over 120 years ago, and its legacy in producing leaders, including members of his own family.

Baale also called on the government to model the school as a symbol of excellence, emphasizing that education remains the greatest legacy left by their ancestors. He encouraged teachers and security personnel to help maintain the newly donated facilities, ensuring their longevity for future generations.

Dr. Victor Ukorebi, CEO and president of the Build-a-School Initiative in Africa (BASIA), emphasized the importance of facility maintenance, noting that this responsibility now rests with the community.

In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency Engr. (Mrs.) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, expressed sincere gratitude to the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their humanitarian efforts in the state. She pointed out other successful projects completed by the Church in Abeokuta and Iyesi Ota. Mrs. Salako also lauded COAFRICA and Build-a-School Initiative in Africa for their partnership with the state.

She renewed the invitation for more partnership in the state. "The state and the government cannot do it alone in promoting education. We need more partners like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, COAFRICA and Build-a-School Initiative in Africa."

The handover of the new classrooms and school desks signifies the Church's dedication to improving access to quality education. The initiative aligns with its global mission to promote learning, self-reliance and moral excellence.

The ceremony brought together local and religious leaders, educators and community members in a spirit of gratitude and unity as the pupils of St. Peter’s Anglican School began a new chapter equipped to provide a conducive learning environment for their students.