Engr. Ganiyu Johnson Rewards 14 Outstanding Pupils in Oshodi/Isolo, Reaffirms Commitment to Education and Development

Engr. Ganiyu Johnson Rewards 14 Outstanding Pupils in Oshodi/Isolo, Reaffirms Commitment to Education and Development

By Naomi Onome

Former Member of the House of Representatives, Engr Dr Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson, has fulfilled his promise to reward academic excellence by awarding ₦100,000 each to 14 outstanding pupils selected from primary schools across the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area.

The event, which brought together community leaders, education stakeholders, parents, and pupils, was held as part of efforts to encourage excellence and support the educational advancement of young learners within the constituency.

Speaking at the ceremony, Engr Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson, as represented by Hon. Aregbesola Ismail Olakunle, emphasised that the initiative was in fulfilment of a commitment he made at a recent event organised by the executive chairman of Isolo LGA.

“Today represents a moment of promise made and promise fulfilled. These pupils have distinguished themselves through hard work and discipline, and they deserve to be encouraged,” he said.

The beneficiaries were carefully selected by local education authorities and school administrators based on their outstanding academic performance. In addition to his support for education, Engr. Johnson reassured residents of his continued commitment to infrastructural development across Oshodi/Isolo.

He highlighted ongoing works under the Isolo Road Expansion Project, which is currently improving major roads and inner streets within the constituency.

Barrister Ganiu Bello commended Ganiu Abiodun Johnson for his resilience and effective leadership, describing him as a quiet achiever whose performance speaks through his track record rather than rhetoric. He noted that Johnson’s record of service, when highlighted, clearly demonstrates his impact and commitment to the people.

Bello emphasised the importance of trust in leadership, stating that elected officials are given a mandate through their manifesto and are expected to deliver on their promises. He concluded by reaffirming support for the APC, stressing confidence in the party’s leadership and direction.

Former lawmaker Gbolahan Ogunleye, who represented Oshodi/Isolo in the House of Representatives in 1999 under the Alliance for Democracy (AD), emphasised the critical role of teachers in shaping the success of the 14 award-winning pupils.

Addressing the beneficiaries, he noted that while natural intelligence plays a role, it is the dedication and quality of teachers that refine and bring out excellence in students. He urged the pupils to always appreciate their teachers, stressing that their achievements are a product of both innate ability and proper guidance. Ogunleye also commended the standard of teaching in public schools within the constituency, describing it as highly commendable compared to many private institutions.

On leadership and development, he described Engr Dr Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson as a valuable asset to Oshodi/Isolo, highlighting his contributions to infrastructural development, particularly road projects across areas such as Okota and Isolo Central. He attributed these achievements to Johnson’s experience and network from his time in public service, including his role in the Ministry of Works.

He further stressed that effective representation goes beyond academic qualifications, emphasising the importance of practical experience, influence, and the ability to attract development to the constituency.

Finally, Ogunleye encouraged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, noting that governance requires collective involvement and informed decision-making by the electorate.

Among them was Tonade Akinwale, an APC chieftain and incoming local government chairman, who described the initiative as a “history-making event” and praised the beneficiaries for their discipline and academic focus.

Engr. Johnson is a leader who keeps his promises and is committed to the development of Oshodi-Isolo,” Okuneye said. “We are proud to support him and look forward to his re-election in 2027,” Tonade said.

He also urged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s upbringing, noting that education requires a collaborative effort between teachers and families.

Similarly, education leaders present at the event emphasised the importance of recognising teachers’ contributions in shaping the success of pupils.

Mayowa Alakija, the education secretary of Oshodi Isolo LGA, noted that Hon. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson’s initiative to reward 14 top-performing pupils from 14 primary schools in Oshodi-Isolo will spark a healthy competition among students, encouraging them to strive for excellence.

The gesture, which Alakija said has gone viral among pupils, teachers, and stakeholders, is seen as a commendable effort to promote education and recognise outstanding academic performance. The impact of Johnson’s efforts, he says, extends beyond the financial gifts, inspiring pupils to work harder and aim for recognition. Many are already looking forward to next year’s awards, with some expressing determination to be the next beneficiaries.

His initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the pupils and the community at large. Moreover, the gesture is seen as a commendable effort to promote education and recognise outstanding performance. Johnson has been urged to make the programme annual, inspiring future leaders and promoting community development, Alakija added.

The Chairman of the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), Oshodi/Isolo chapter, Salami Rafiu Adebare, commended Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson for his impactful contributions to education and infrastructure within the constituency.

In his remarks, Adebare highlighted that Johnson’s legacy remains evident across public schools, citing the provision of textbooks, learning facilities, and improved school environments. He noted that many of the educational resources introduced during Johnson’s tenure are still in use, reflecting the sustainability of his interventions.

He also referenced ongoing infrastructural developments, particularly road rehabilitation projects linking areas such as Ejigbo and Iyana-Isolo, attributing these improvements to Johnson’s experience and influence from his time in public service.

Adebare further urged parents and residents to recognise and appreciate the benefits of such initiatives, emphasising the importance of informed political participation. He encouraged continued support for the ruling APC, noting that government-led interventions, including the distribution of learning materials and school supplies, have positively impacted pupils in the constituency.

In conclusion, he reaffirmed the commitment of stakeholders to support Johnson’s leadership while also calling for unity among residents, stressing that progress should be prioritised above ethnic or religious considerations.

The chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oshodi/Isolo chapter, Adegbosun B. Adesola, described Engr Johnson as a reliable and education-friendly leader who has consistently supported both teachers and students in the constituency. She encouraged residents to remain engaged in the democratic process by obtaining their permanent voter cards (PVCs) and participating actively in elections.

Adesola further emphasised the need for unity, urging citizens to look beyond ethnic and religious differences and focus on supporting leaders who demonstrate integrity, competence, and a commitment to development.

The NASU Oshodi/Isolo Unit Chairman, Aderemi Gbadebo Taofeeq, emphasised the crucial role of parents in nurturing children’s success, describing them as key beneficiaries of their children’s achievements. He urged parents to closely monitor, guide, and continually pray for their children, especially those already showing signs of excellence at an early age.

Speaking at the event, Taofeeq noted that early academic success should be carefully sustained through proper upbringing and support to ensure a brighter future.

The event concluded with widespread commendation for Engr. Johnson’s leadership and his commitment to fulfilling promises. Stakeholders described his actions as a reflection of responsible governance and a model for public service. They also commended his dedication to service and his track record of delivering impactful projects.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, a pupil identified as Ogunaike from AUD Primary School, expressed gratitude to Ganiu Abiodun Johnson for the financial support. The pupil also encouraged continued support for the benefactor, reflecting appreciation for the gesture.

Another beneficiary, a pupil identified as Gift, now in Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1), expressed excitement after receiving the ₦100,000 academic award promised during her time in Primary 6.

Gift, who emerged as the top student in her class consistently across terms, described the recognition as motivating and encouraging. She advised other students to work hard, study diligently, and pay close attention to their teachers in order to achieve similar success.

Parents in attendance also expressed gratitude to the organiser, Engr. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson. She noted that this was the first time she had received such support from a leader in the constituency educationally.

Beneficiaries include Okoro Igwe Gift (Ire-Akari Estate Model); Ezeawujo Christabel Anulika (Ire-Akari Primary School, Ilasamaja); Agboola Faruq Ademola (Local Govt Primary School, Isolo); David Martha Kume (Ajao Estate Primary School); David Itunu Abigail (Kusoru Primary School); Ify Chinerem David (Gbeleyi Nursery and Primary School); Muibi Barakat Ashake (Estate Primary School); Ugochukwu Faith Oluebubechukwu (Akinbaiye Primary School); Jimson Oyikansola Morolake (St Paul’s Anglican Primary School); Ojoowuro Morireoluwa Chukwudebe (Olokun Primary School, Ilasamaja); Shiyanbade Aishat Taiwo (Ilasamaja Primary Oko-Mala); Opeoluwa Olamide Tolulope (Dele Ajomale Primary School); Ogunride Akeem (Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School); and Adetoba Anjolaoluwa Semilogo (Faronbi Primary School).

About Engr Dr Ganiyu Johnson

A Man of Distinctive Personality and Popularity for Progress

Engr. Dr Ganiyu Johnson stands out as a leader whose distinctive personality is matched by an uncommon passion for progress and people-centred development. Widely respected for his professionalism, humility, and results-driven approach, he has earned admiration across communities and sectors.

A technocrat with a deep understanding of leadership and service, Engr. Dr Johnson combines technical expertise with visionary thinking. His popularity is not built on mere rhetoric but on tangible achievements, accessibility to the people, and a consistent commitment to growth and innovation.

Known for his calm disposition, strategic mindset, and inclusive leadership style, he continues to inspire confidence and unity. His ability to connect with people at all levels has positioned him as a bridge between ideas and execution, vision and reality.

Engr. Dr Ganiyu Johnson, the face of Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II, 2027