Federal Lawmaker,  Makinde, advocates more investment in education

By Richard Ilesanmi – Akure

Hon. Abiola Makinde, member representing Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has reiterated the vital role of education in national development, describing it as the foundation for a prosperous future.

He made this assertion during the grand finale of the 2025 Ondo Central Inter-Public Secondary School Debate and Quiz Competition, organised through the Honourable Abiola Makinde and Dr Rhoda Makinde Initiative (HAMDROMI).

While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure, the federal lawmaker underscored the need for sustained investment in education. He noted that initiatives such as school rehabilitation, provision of instructional materials, and student competitions are integral to developing young minds.

The debate and quiz event, according to him, was designed to identify and nurture the intellectual potential of students across the six local government areas of Ondo Central Senatorial District.

The competition, which drew participants from top-performing schools in each local government, aimed to inspire academic excellence and reinforce confidence, public speaking skills, and subject knowledge among students.

In the debate category, Ijapo High School, Akure South LGA, claimed first place, while Methodist High School, Idanre LGA, and St. Joseph’s College, Ondo West LGA, emerged as first and second runners-up, respectively. CAC Grammar School, Akure South LGA, won the quiz competition, with St. Joseph’s College and United Comprehensive High School, Ikota, Ifedore LGA, securing second and third positions.

Winning schools in each category were awarded cash prizes of ₦300,000, laptops, and educational resources, including textbooks and exercise books. They were also promised an educational excursion to the National Assembly in Abuja.

First and second runners-up received ₦200,000 and ₦150,000 respectively, in addition to books, while all other participants received consolation prizes and learning materials.

At the local government level, ₦100,000 and ₦50,000 were awarded to the first and second runners-up, respectively, alongside educational supplies.

Dr Rhoda Makinde, co-organiser of the initiative, encouraged participants to embrace every opportunity for personal development, describing competitions as platforms for growth and discovery.

She appreciated parents and teachers for their supportive roles in guiding the students toward excellence.

Participants and educators, who commended the organisers for providing students with a meaningful platform to showcase their abilities and aspire towards future achievement.