The first Alternative Secondary School for Girls in Nigeria has been commissioned in Lagos, providing a second chance at quality education for girls whose schooling has been interrupted by social, economic or personal circumstances.
The landmark school, located along Old Ojo Road in Agboju, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos, was commissioned on Friday, August 14, 2026, by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented at the ceremony by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima.
The initiative is designed to provide girls with an opportunity to return to formal education, acquire relevant skills, regain confidence and prepare for further education, entrepreneurship and economic opportunities.
In her keynote address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to promoting education, empowerment and opportunities for Nigerian girls. She commended the Lagos State Government for complementing the Federal Government’s efforts and proposed the establishment of at least one alternative high school for girls in each senatorial district.
She urged the beneficiaries to see the school as a platform to rebuild their dreams and equip themselves with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to become productive citizens.
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said no girl should be written off because circumstances interrupted her education, stressing that “every girl deserves a second chance.”
She noted that the initiative had restored dignity and hope to girls who had previously thought their educational dreams were over, adding that education and technology remain key priorities of the Lagos State Government.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, described the establishment of the school as a bold and innovative step towards ensuring that every girl has an opportunity to complete her education and realise her potential.
He encouraged the students to remain focused and disciplined, assuring them that a setback should not determine their future.
The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, Dr. Aisha Garba, commended the initiative, stressing that no child’s circumstances should determine his or her future.
She disclosed that a second alternative school, located in Ikorodu, would soon be commissioned as the Federal Government continues to develop reforms and initiatives targeted at girls who have been excluded from conventional education.
The commissioning ceremony attracted government officials, education stakeholders, traditional rulers, development partners, parents and members of the community.
The event also featured the presentation of gifts to outstanding students in various skills and crafts by the First Lady of Lagos State.
Stakeholders at the ceremony described the initiative as a timely intervention that would help reduce educational exclusion, promote economic empowerment and create better opportunities for vulnerable girls and young women across Nigeria.
#GirlsEducation #EducationForAll #LagosState
