Homecoming: Gov Okpebholo Returns to Revamped Alma Mater As Ujabholo Grammar School Shines Again [PHOTOS]

It was a homecoming filled with pride and emotion as Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, returned to his alma mater, Ujabholo Grammar School, Uwessan, in Esan Central Local Government Area to commission its newly renovated and upgraded facilities.

The facelift, a product of China–Nigeria educational cooperation, was sponsored by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos and executed in partnership with Nigeria Yongxing Steel Company Limited, under the theme “Love Builds Dreams, Steel Builds Foundations; China and Nigeria Nurture the Future Together.”

Governor Okpebholo lauded the Chinese Government and Yongxing Steel for their commitment to educational development, describing the project as “a symbol of friendship and progress.”

“Let me thank the Chinese Government and Yongxing Steel Company for this innovation,” the Governor said. “When they told me about this project, I knew my community would benefit from a renewed learning environment. On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend heartfelt appreciation to the Consulate-General and the People’s Republic of China. May this friendship continue to flourish through impactful projects like this.”

For the Governor, the ceremony was deeply personal. Standing once again within the walls of the school where his educational journey began decades ago, Okpebholo described the moment as both emotional and fulfilling.

“This is where I began my secondary education,” he recalled. “For over 20 years, I hadn’t been back. To return today, not as a student but as Governor, to commission this beautiful facility, brings me great joy.”

In addition to the renovations, Governor Okpebholo announced further development plans for the school, including electrification, installation of street lights, a perimeter fence, and a state-of-the-art 250-computer CBT centre.

He charged students and staff to protect and make the best use of the facilities, emphasizing that education remains central to his administration’s agenda.

“This upgraded school is a gift,” he said. “Use it wisely, let it inspire academic excellence and discipline. Edo State remains open to partnerships that drive education, innovation, and sustainable development.”

Representing the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Mrs. Yan Yuqing reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in education.

“Education is one of the key pillars of China–Africa cooperation,” she noted. “As Nigeria is a major investment destination for China, we are eager to strengthen our partnership in education, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.”

Also speaking at the event, the Edo State Commissioner for Education, represented by the Permanent Secretary, commended the initiative as a boost to the State’s educational development goals.

The Principal of Ujabholo Grammar School, Mr. Asemota, expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government, the Chinese Consulate, and project partners for transforming the school into a conducive learning environment.

The commissioning of Ujabholo Grammar School stands as another milestone in Governor Okpebholo’s drive to strengthen education, foster international collaboration, and empower Edo’s next generation of leaders.