NELFUND MD seeks more support for Igbobi College infrastructure

File photo: The Managing Director/Chief Executive of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, Akintunde Sawyerr, has called for greater support from old students of Igbobi College, Lagos, to improve the school’s infrastructure.

Sawyerr, an alumnus of the college, said the institution’s old buildings, though well-maintained, remained largely unchanged since his school days, stressing the need for continued investment in its facilities.

He spoke on the sidelines of Igbobi College’s 91st inter-house sports competition, held on Thursday at the college’s sports ground, where he reflected on the school’s development and his experience as a student and athlete more than 50 years ago.

“Igbobi College, largely speaking, hasn’t changed that much. The old buildings are still here,” he said.

Sawyerr noted that although the school appeared to have received reasonable maintenance, more could be done to improve its infrastructure.

“One of the things that I’m very keen to see is how the old students can better support Igbobi College to improve the facilities, particularly the infrastructure,” he added.

He explained that ageing infrastructure required regular attention to prevent deterioration and breakdown, urging stakeholders to sustain efforts to improve the school’s facilities.

The NELFUND boss also drew parallels between the values of sportsmanship and the student loan scheme, saying both reflected the importance of supporting people who needed assistance.

He urged the students to strive for excellence in academics and sports while treating others fairly.

“They should always play fairly. They should always recognise that others may not be as strong as they are in certain regards, so they should carry their brothers along as they move forward,” he said.

Sawyerr, who described his return to the school as exciting, said the competition brought back memories of his participation as a student and athlete more than five decades ago.

Meanwhile, the First Vice-President of the Igbobi College Old Boys’ Association, Femi Soremekun, said the association was committed to supporting the institution through infrastructure development, scholarships and other interventions.

He said the association was reviewing the school’s master plan to identify its needs and establish a long-term development programme.

Soremekun also disclosed that the association had an endowment fund target of N10bn, with more than N3bn secured through cash contributions and commitments from old students.

He said the association had supported the refurbishment of dormitories, the construction of new facilities and the provision of staff accommodation to help attract qualified teachers.

According to him, old students also provide scholarships to support pupils and invest in initiatives aimed at improving academic standards.

Soremekun explained that the association worked with the school’s owners and participated in its governance through the Board of Governors.

In his address at the competition, the school’s principal, Oyewale Adediji, said the annual event reflected Igbobi College’s longstanding commitment to discipline, teamwork, integrity and excellence.

He urged the students to compete fairly, respect their opponents and demonstrate good character, noting that sports helped develop qualities needed beyond the classroom.

Adediji also commended parents, staff, the Board of Governors and the old boys’ association for their contributions to the school’s development.

The interhouse competition was won by Aggrey (Blue) House.

Parker (Purple) House emerged as first runner-up, while Oluwole (Yellow) House was second runner-up.

Other participating houses were Freeman (Green) and Townsend (Red).