By Yemi Akinsuyi
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Nigeria Yongxing Steel Company Limited for renovating and upgrading Ujabholo Grammar School in Uwessan, Esan Central Local Government Area.
The project, a China–Nigeria cooperation in education school reconstruction initiative, was instituted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos with the support of the Edo State Government.
It was jointly executed by Nigeria Yongxing Steel Company Limited, under the theme “Love Builds Dreams, Steel Builds Foundations; China and Nigeria Nurture the Future Together.”
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to the Chinese Government and the project partners for what he described as “a symbol of friendship and progress.”
The Governor said: “Let me thank the Chinese Government and the Yongxing Steel Company for this innovation. When they came to tell me about this project, I knew my community would benefit from a newly-renovated and upgraded school. On behalf of the Government and the people of Edo State, I sincerely thank the Consulate-General and the Government of the People’s Republic of China. May your goodwill and friendship continue to speak through projects like these.”
Okpebholo, who revealed that he attended the school as a student several years ago, described his return to commission the renovated facility as an emotional and fulfilling moment.
He said: “This is where I started my secondary education, but for over 20 years, I have not stepped into this school. Coming here today for this purpose makes me very happy.”
Governor Okpebholo further announced additional plans to enhance the school’s facilities, including electrification, installation of street lights, construction of a perimeter fence, and establishment of a 250-computer CBT centre.
He said: “This upgraded school is a gift. It is your responsibility to take good care of it. Use it wisely and let it inspire academic excellence and discipline. Edo State is committed to partnerships that drive education, innovation, business, and sustainable development. We are open for collaborations that create jobs, boost local businesses, and strengthen cultural and economic ties.”
In her remarks, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Mrs. Yan Yuqing, highlighted the importance of educational cooperation between China and Africa.
She noted: “Education cooperation is a key component of the ten partnership actions under the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation. As Nigeria is China’s important trade partner and a major investment destination in Africa, China is willing to use this opportunity to further expand bilateral economic and trade relations and strategic mutual cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, science, and technology.”
The Commissioner for Education, Mr. Paddy Iyamu, was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, who also delivered a goodwill message on his behalf.
The principal of Ujabholo Grammar School, Mr. Asemota, also expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government, the Chinese Consulate, and project partners for transforming the learning environment for students in the community.
The commissioning of Ujabholo Grammar School marks another milestone in Governor Okpebholo’s drive to promote quality education and sustainable partnerships that empower local communities and strengthen Edo State’s human capital development.
