By NAN
Distinguished legal practitioner, publisher and humanitarian, Chief Prof. Amb. Ebosetale David Aigbefoh, Esq., has called on corporate Nigeria, philanthropists and critical stakeholders to “bankroll” education and human capital development as a strategic investment for national growth.
Aigbefoh made the charge on Saturday at the 5th Graduation and Prize-Giving Ceremony of NIMAT International Academy, Tungan Maje, Abuja. The event also featured the unveiling of the school’s mini stadium, now named “CHIEF PROF EBOSETALE DAVID AIGBEFOH ESQ STADIUM” in recognition of his support for the institution.
Speaking at the ceremony, Aigbefoh said sustainable development is impossible without deliberate investment in quality education and the empowerment of citizens.
He urged Nigerians to complement government efforts through infrastructure development, scholarships, mentorship and other programmes that promote academic excellence. He also tasked the Federal Government to prioritize funding, upgrade facilities and enact policies that strengthen teaching and learning across the country.
Describing the stadium honour as “a call to greater service,” Aigbefoh said he hopes it inspires more individuals and organizations to support schools and initiatives for holistic child development.
“I consider this honour a call to greater service. I hope it will encourage more Nigerians to invest in our schools and support programmes that promote the holistic development of our children,” he stated.
In his keynote, Prof. Ichado Sunday of the Institute of Education, University of Abuja, described education as the bedrock of national development. He noted that government alone cannot fund education and stressed the need for public-private partnerships.
“The government alone cannot provide all that is required for the education of our children. When private proprietors and other stakeholders complement government efforts, the sector moves in the right direction,” he said.
Prof. Sunday added that many private schools outperform public schools due to effective leadership and accountability, and urged competence as a key criterion in school administration.
Earlier, *Mr. Atuluku Yusuf, CEO of NIMAT International Academy, commended Chief Aigbefoh for his unwavering commitment to education. He described the stadium naming as a fitting recognition of his generosity and urged other Nigerians and corporate bodies to emulate him to help produce responsible, productive and globally competitive leaders.
The event featured graduation of pupils and students, prize presentation to outstanding learners, cultural displays and goodwill messages from parents and education stakeholders.
