Barrister (Chief) Abdujeleel Abiodun Owonikoko, a distinguished legal luminary and native of Iseyin, made a significant donation to his alma mater, Anwar-Ul Islam High School II in Iseyin, Oyo State.
Through the Juweirat & Kazeem Owonikoko Education Scholarship Foundation, he donated a modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) center and a block of three new classrooms.
This initiative, marked by an official commissioning ceremony, took place on the school’s premises, drawing a large crowd of dignitaries, community leaders, educators, and well-wishers.
The donation honours the memory of Owonikoko’s late father, Chief Kazeem Owonikoko.
During the commissioning speech, the head of the Owonikoko family, Alhaji Waheed Shittu Owonikoko, highlighted that his father’s life was centered on religion, education, and politics. He emphasized that Chief Kazeem Owonikoko’s dedication to these areas contributed significantly to his achievements.
Representing their brother, Mrs. Sururah Olabisi Owonikoko Olamina and Mrs. Shukurah Owonikoko Bakare explained that the new facilities aligned with their brother’s goal of providing sound education to all students, regardless of their background.
Acknowledging the school’s other needs, they promised further support, reinforcing the family’s commitment to community development.
Mr. Lukman Adeoti, the Ambassador of the Juweirat & Kazeem Owonikoko Education Scholarship Foundation, spoke about the profound impact of the late Chief Kazeem Owonikoko.
He reminisced about his instrumental role in establishing institutions like Iseyin District Grammar School (IDGS) and Anwar-Ul Islam, among other notable projects.
Adeoti lauded Barrister Owonikoko for continuing his father’s legacy, ensuring his philanthropic spirit endures.
The event was a testament to the community’s deep appreciation for the Owonikoko family’s generosity. Various stakeholders offered remarks, expressing gratitude and encouragement.
Alhaji Yusuf Fatai, the TESCOM officer and an old students’ representative, along with Mr. Azeez Wasiu, the school’s principal, and Alhaji Ismail Bayo Folorunso, the National President of the Old Students Association, all praised the donation.
Akeem Aisha, the school’s senior girl, also spoke on behalf of the students, praying for continued blessings on the sponsor and encouraging him to do more for the school.
The newly commissioned facilities are expected to significantly enhance the learning environment, providing students with access to modern technology and more conducive classrooms.
The ICT center, equipped with a set of new computers, will be a game-changer for digital literacy in the school, preparing students for the demands of the modern world.
The event concluded with a special prayer led by Alhaji Shakirulah Moshood, bringing together stakeholders of Anwar-Ul Islam, school teachers, management, members of the Owonikoko family, and other well-wishers.
The ceremony not only celebrated a generous donation but also reinforced the importance of education and community support. Looking ahead, the family announced that the 5th anniversary of the Juweirat & Kazeem Owonikoko Education Scholarship Foundation and the 20th-year remembrance of Chief Kazeem Owonikoko will be held in 2026, promising more philanthropic activities to benefit the community.
