Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun Applauds Dr. Fadekemi Jogbodo’s Exemplary Leadership as Ijapo High School Akure Commissions Multi-Million Naira Building Donated by Old Students Association
The Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, has commended the proactive leadership and commitment of the Principal of Ijapo High School, Akure, Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, describing her as a transformational leader dedicated to the school’s growth and excellence.
Prof. Ajibefun gave the commendation during the commissioning of a multi-million naira block of three classrooms, Staffroom and water system donated by the Ijapo High School Old Students Association on Thursday, October 24, 2025.
The Commissioner lauded the coordination and teamwork evident in the school under Dr. Jogbodo’s leadership, noting that her administration has successfully attracted the support of the PTA, Old Students Association and the school’s staff and students for overall success recorded during the short period she came on board as the principal of the school.
“This is the first project I am commissioning since assuming office as Commissioner, and I am deeply impressed by what I see here,” Prof. Ajibefun said. “I commend the donors and pray that God will continue to bless and uplift them. The Ijapo High School Old Students Association has set a worthy example that others should emulate. Government alone cannot do it all.”
In her welcome address, the award-winning Principal, Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, expressed profound gratitude to God and appreciated the collective efforts of the staff, PTA, Old Students, and the entire school community for their support in achieving numerous successes under her leadership.
She attributed her accomplishments to divine grace and the cooperation of her team, recalling her earlier tenure at the school as an English teacher before returning last year as Principal.
The Chairman of the Building Committee, Barr. Dan Olawale-Dan, described the event as a “return of the fruits of teachers’ investments,” acknowledging the sacrifices of educators who laid the foundation for the students’ success.
In his presidential address, the President of the Ijapo High School Old Students Association, Engr. Felix Ojo, expressed joy and gratitude over the successful completion of the project.
“Today, we are not just dedicating a building; we are celebrating a vision born out of love, sustained by faith, and fulfilled through the collective sacrifice of men and women who once walked these grounds as students,” he said.
He recounted how the dream began eight years ago with a ₦500,000 seed donation from a passionate alumnus, which inspired others to contribute—some in small amounts, others in millions—all united by a shared purpose.
“It took eight years of perseverance, faith, and resilience, but to the glory of God, this dream is now a reality,” he added. “This building is a testament to what unity of purpose can achieve.”
Engr. Ojo also appealed to the Ondo State Government to provide additional support for the growing student population and the expansion of learning facilities.
He further appreciated Dr. Jogbodo for her encouragement and cooperation, noting that her commitment played a pivotal role in making the project a success.
The Old Students Association also used the occasion to donate towards upgrading the school’s Science Laboratories and to award scholarships worth ₦500,000 (₦50,000 each) to outstanding students from JSS1 to SS3.
The colourful event featured various cultural performances, including Ewi recitations, press presentations, and traditional dances, adding excitement to the atmosphere of celebration and gratitude.