By Amidat Shittu
In a colorful and emotion laden ceremony held on July 25, 2025, the Pedro Primary School Old Students Association, 1983 Set, hosted the second edition of its “Recognition of Excellence Programme” at the school premises in Somolu Bariga, Lagos. The event, aimed at celebrating academic distinction and reinforcing the culture of gratitude, brought together dignitaries, headteachers, parents, past and present students and was also streamed live via Zoom meeting for virtual participants across Nigeria and beyond. The day kicked off with an opening prayer led in the Christian tradition by Mrs. Oni, a parent of one of the pupils, setting a reflective tone for the occasion. Mrs. Oluyemisi Abodunrin the headteacher, welcomed all attendees, expressing appreciation for the school community and the old students for their enduring commitment to the school’s growth.
In a powerful address, the President of the 1983 Set, Professor Rahmat Adetutu Adisa, welcomed everyone present, including those joining online and shared the deeper purpose of the initiative. She explained that the Recognition of Excellence Programme which began in 2024 to mark the 41st anniversary of their graduation from the school has now become an annual tradition. According to Prof. Rahmat Adisa, the event is a platform to promote academic diligence, reward excellence, and encourage both high performing and struggling pupils to strive harder. Students from Nursery through Primary 6 were rewarded for outstanding academic performance while six pupils classified as “special” not due to any disability but as uniquely placed by divine design were supported with school uniforms, caps, bags and in the case of a Primary 6 pupil, full sponsorship for the next academic session. The programme also served as a mentorship opportunity, with the old students acting as role models to the younger generation.
One of the most touching moments of the day was the Commendation paid to Mrs. Esther Ayoola, a revered retired Teacher who taught many members of the 1983 set Prof Rahmat Adisa described her as a disciplined yet inspiring figure whose teaching style planted the seeds of excellence in her pupils. In response, Mrs. Esther Ayoola delivered an emotional appreciation speech, recalling her tenure at the school which began in 1973 during a severe teacher shortage. She narrated how she and two other teachers Mrs Onishabor and Mrs Oladeji tirelessly worked to uphold high academic standards, a legacy that positioned Pedro Primary School as a top performer in Lagos State’s Primary Six Leaving Examinations. She also recounted a deeply personal story involving one of her former pupils now a medical doctor (Dr Doherty) who recognized and honoured her at Ikeja General Hospital years later. She praised the old students for remembering their roots and encouraged the current pupils to remain focused and grateful.
Adding to the accolades, Mrs. Mary O Aipoh The chairperson planning committee, another old student, appreciated Mrs. Esther Ayoola, whom she described as a nurturing educator who shaped many destinies. She also commended the current pupils for their academic improvement, noting that this year’s awardees were entirely different from last year’s, an indication of rising performance levels. A token of appreciation was presented to Mrs. Esther Ayoola by Prof Rahmat Adisa and Mrs. Mary O Aipoh symbolizing the group’s gratitude. The prize giving ceremony also included awards for quiz performance, punctuality and good behavior, presented by the school management.
Words of encouragement flowed from several dignitaries including Mr. Lawal Tajudeen, Director of the School Support Service (SSS), who urged pupils to remain focused on their education and Adeboye Lamina, chairman of the Parents Forum, who spoke on parental responsibility in nurturing excellence. Former teachers Mrs. Oladeji and Mrs. Mercy Onishabor both spoke fondly of Mrs. Esther Ayoola’s leadership and mentorship, describing her as a teacher of teachers and a pillar of the school’s excellence. Mrs. Onishabor in particular highlighted how Ayoola’s open-door approach helped her grow in confidence as a young teacher.
Parental feedback was presented by Mr. Arikpo Akpan and Mrs. Onyejinwa, who both praised the school’s developmental strides, the dedication of the teaching staff and the positive influence of the old student’s involvement. The vote of thanks was jointly delivered by Mr. Tijani Kabeer, representing the school staff and a pupil, Opemipo Oladipupo. Mr. Kabeer specially appreciate the 1983 sets consistent support, while Opemipo expressed gratitude to the old students, current teachers and school administrators for their roles in shaping young minds. The event drew to a close with a Muslim prayer symbolizing unity and inclusivity and cementing the 1983 set’s commitment to a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and giving back to the school that raised them.
