By Sodiq Adelakun

Lagos State Government, through the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), has officially granted Provisional Approval Letters to 70 private schools across the state.

The list includes 41 Nursery/Primary Schools and 29 Junior/Senior Secondary Schools, marking a pivotal achievement for the private education sector in the year 2025.

The presentation of the approval letters, which took place on Wednesday at the Education Resource Centre, Ojodu, Ikeja, serves as a testament to Lagos State’s unyielding commitment to educational excellence.

Sesan Ogundeko, Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, expressed that the event symbolises a  milestone in the government’s efforts to bolster the quality of education in the state.

He stressed the crucial role private schools play in shaping the future of Lagos State and highlighted that the approval process aligns with the state’s broader educational reform agenda.

Ogundeko stated, “Our children are the future of Lagos, and we must prioritize their welfare and education at every opportunity. This event underscores our commitment to educational excellence and the importance of collaboration with private institutions in nurturing a conducive learning environment.”

The approval process, he noted, is comprehensive and designed to uphold the state’s stringent educational standards.

“We will continue to invest in education and partner with private schools to provide the necessary resources for fostering quality education,” he added.

Remi Abdul, Coordinating Director of OEQA, further emphasized the meticulous steps involved in the approval process.

“Out of more than 100 applicants, only 70 met the high standards set by the state. The process involved detailed online registration, site visits, and thorough inspections to ensure compliance with Lagos’ educational policies,” he said.

Abdul also cautioned private school owners to adhere strictly to established educational laws, especially those governing child protection and safety.

Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, Director of Private Education and Special Programmes, congratulated the newly approved school owners, urging them to maintain the high standards they had demonstrated during the approval process.

“This approval is not just a recognition of your efforts but a reminder of the significant responsibility you now bear in ensuring quality education,” he said.

Executive Director of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Adebayo Orunsolu who was represented by Mr. Peter Adefioye, reiterated the added benefits for schools receiving provisional approval.

“For these schools, the approval not only enhances credibility but also provides a marketing advantage, attracting students and strengthening the school’s reputation,” Orunsolu noted.

In an expression of gratitude, several school owners shared their experiences.

Proprietor of Russell College, Mrs. Ehi Antoinette Nwanoeze expressed her pride, stating, “This approval means recognition. It signifies that we are meeting Lagos State’s requirements for running a school within this state.”

Also, Mrs. Adeogo Omenebele-Eunice, Proprietress of Les Graines Precious Nursery and Primary School, commended the approval process, describing it as “a thorough and systematic review” of schools in Lagos.

She also extended her thanks to the Lagos State Government and the OEQA for their dedication to upholding high educational standards.