Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, have inaugurated the ultra-modern GYB Model Science Secondary School in Nagazi, Adavi Local Government Area, in a bold demonstration of the state’s resolve to reposition education for future generations.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Ododo described the institution as “a monumental expression of our commitment to raising a generation with the learning and character required to lead.”

He noted that investment in education remains the most strategic pathway to sustainable development.

The Governor stated that strengthening the education sector is not only about present gains but about empowering generations yet unborn in a Kogi State driven by the vision to make the state a hub of knowledge and innovation.

“To invest in education is to invest in stability,” the Governor declared, adding that the establishment of the mega school reflects deliberate policies, improved funding, and a clear vision to place education at the centre of governance.

Governor Ododo emphasized that the strategic siting of the school in Nagazi was aimed at deepening access to quality education at the grassroots, ensuring that students across communities benefit from modern learning infrastructure.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold leadership and commitment to revamping Nigeria’s economy through strategic investments and reforms, noting that increase in revenue to sub-national governments have enabled Kogi State to expand investments in education, healthcare and security.

The Governor also commended the collaboration between the Federal Government and Kogi State, describing it as a catalyst for improved outcomes in the education sector.

He expressed appreciation to the Minister of Education for prioritizing education and supporting reforms across the country.

While acknowledging the foundation laid by former Governor Yahaya Bello, Governor Ododo said his administration has consolidated on past gains to deliver a world-class learning environment for students.

He further highlighted ongoing reforms, including the renovation of over 700 schools under the AGILE project, as well as efforts to secure accreditations in tertiary institutions, particularly for medical training as part of efforts to ensure Kogi state remains a shining light for human capital development in Nigeria.

The Governor urged students of the school to embrace the opportunity with dedication and purpose, while calling on the host community and stakeholders to protect and preserve the facility as a shared asset.

In his remarks, Minister of Education, Dr. Alausa, commended Governor Ododo for placing strong emphasis on education, noting that the state is exceeding recommended budgetary benchmarks for the sector with up to 30 percent allocation to education.

He described education as the bedrock of any society and praised the administration of Governor Ododo for investments not only in education but also in security, healthcare and infrastructure.

The Minister noted that Kogi State’s possession of three universities reflects prudent use of resources and commitment to human capital development, urging students and youths to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the government.

He also commended the state’s free education policy, describing it as a bold and people-centered intervention capable of reducing the burden on families and addressing the challenge of out-of-school children.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sustaining reforms in the education sector.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, pledged continued support of the traditional institutions for efforts aimed at improving education in the state.

The school Principal, Yusuf Husseini, expressed appreciation to the government for delivering a facility that meets global standards, assuring that the management would ensure its effective utilization and maintenance.

The GYB Model Science Secondary School is equipped with 18 classrooms, a Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre with over 250 computers, fully fitted science laboratories, examination halls, staff offices, water supply through boreholes, sanitation facilities, perimeter fencing, and a standard football pitch.