A Star Is Born: David Adebanwo Emerges One-Day Principal of CAC Adu Memorial High School as Stakeholders Hail Mrs. Olajumoke Ekpo-Jide’s Visionary Leadership
History was made at CAC Adu Memorial High School, Akure, on Monday, February 9, 2026, as Master David Adebanwo, an SSS 2 Science student, was decorated as the school’s One-Day Principal after emerging overall best in a rigorous written and oral leadership assessment.
The colourful ceremony, held within the school premises, drew commendations from parents, teachers, students and invited guests, who unanimously applauded the innovative initiative of the Principal, Mrs. Olajumoke Ekpo-Jide.
The symbolic handing over of the insignia of authority marked a defining moment in the school’s leadership development programme, designed to nurture confidence, responsibility and service among students.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ekpo-Jide explained that the programme was conceived to instil leadership qualities in learners, reminding them that they are the leaders of tomorrow. She appreciated the Ondo State Government for its continuous support of education and disclosed plans to make the One-Day Principal initiative an annual event, with hopes of extending it to junior classes in subsequent editions.
Sharing a touching testimony, the Principal recalled how a similar initiative she introduced in her former school transformed the life of an unnoticed student who later gained university admission.
“This programme encourages hidden talents and builds self-esteem. By God’s grace, we will continue this until I retire from service,” she said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mrs. Akinnusi, revealed that 48 students drawn from SSS 1 to SSS 3 participated in the first round of the competition. Sixteen advanced to the second stage, five finalists emerged, and after intensive oral engagement by management, the top three were selected through a transparent, merit-based process.
Miss Muritala Mesinat (SSS 3) placed third, Master Elijah Amos came second, while Master David Adebawo clinched first position. She noted that the exercise was designed to teach responsibility, fairness, discipline and practical leadership.
In their goodwill messages, incoming PTA Chairman, Pastor Rotimi Isaac Olanigbehin, charged the young principal to see himself not only as One-Day Principal but as a future leader of Nigeria, urging him to remain focused on greatness.
Outgoing PTA Chairman, Pastor Isaac Opaleye, emphasised humility and moral discipline, while Pastor Gabriel Ashaolu reminded the students that promotion comes from God.
The Zonal Education Officer, Mr. Adekunle Henry, also commended the initiative and encouraged students to pursue excellence.
In his acceptance speech, Master David Adebawo gave glory to God and pledged to discharge his duties diligently.
He praised Mrs. Ekpo-Jide for her motherly care and visionary leadership, as well as the school management for making the programme a success.
Immediately after his inauguration, he commissioned the school’s water project, noting that it would greatly improve students’ comfort and hygiene.
Addressing journalists, he announced zero tolerance for indecent dressing and promised to strengthen the school Press Club with better support and equipment.
The event ended on a high note, with dignitaries and stakeholders commending Mrs. Olajumoke Ekpo-Jide for her creativity and calling on other school administrators to emulate her leadership model, which continues to inspire confidence, discipline and excellence among students.