Oyo okays free meal for pupils

The Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, has approved free meal for all primary school pupils in the state.

Ajimobi stated this while inaugurating a block of six classrooms built by Nigerian Breweries Plc for Community High School, Olukeye, Asejire, Ibadan on Thursday.

The governor who urged corporate bodies and wealthy individuals to contribute to the development of education and other sectors in the state, noted that the NB initiative was worthy of emulation.

Ajimobi said, “As part of the effort of this government to encourage education in the state, we will commence provision of free meal for all primary school pupils in the state as soon as the school resumes.

“We hope parents will reciprocate by training their children well. The government cannot do it alone and that is why we are calling on corporate bodies and individuals who have the means to support government initiative.

“The six classrooms, toilet and offices donated by NB is a spirit that all companies should imbibe. NB has over the years provided similar facilities to several schools in the state and I salute the spirit of the management.”

Managing Director/Chief Executive of the company, Mr. Nicolas Vervelde, who was represented by the Corporate Affairs Adviser, Headquarters, Lagos, Mr. Kufre Ekanem, said the gesture was part of the company’s commitment to the development of education in Nigeria.

He added that the move represented the company’s modest identification with the state government’s effort to improve learning.

He said, “I am happy that we have been able to add this modern block made up of six classrooms, four toilets, a library and offices to the school.

“The project was funded by the company and Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, which was established in 1994. We are equally happy that the governor found time to declare it open. It is a demonstration of his passion for education and commitment to making positive change in the education sector in the state.”