Lagos — In a move celebrated as a significant stride toward improving educational facilities and promoting community service, Lions Clubs International District 404B3 Nigeria has officially commissioned and handed over the newly renovated and furnished dining hall of Lagos State Model Senior College, Ojo, to the school authorities and the Lagos State government.

The ceremony took place on Friday at the school premises located along College Road, Agric Bus Stop, Lagos-Badagry Expressway. The event was graced by dignitaries including the Deputy Governor’s representative, Hon. Tolani Ali Balogun, commissioner for Basic & Secondary Education, alongside other notable officials, community leaders, and representatives of teachers, students, PTA, and alumni.

A Project of Compassion and Service
District Governor Lion Dr. Jide Bello led the unveiling, expressing pride in the Lions’ commitment to humanitarian service. “Throughout the renovation process, our dedicated team of professionals, guided by skilled project managers and supported by our hardworking workforce, demonstrated unwavering commitment, attention to detail, and adherence to the highest industry standards,” Lion Bello said. “We are pleased that the project, which began in January 2025, has been completed on time and within budget, and we believe it will serve the students’ needs for many years to come.”

He disclosed that over N50 million was expended on the project, emphasizing the Lions’ dedication to restoring dignity and providing a conducive environment for learning and growth. “Lions are always making a statement of compassion, service to humanity, and responding to the cry of the hungry. The renovation and refurbishment of this dining hall is about restoring dignity and giving our students a befitting place to eat,” he stated.
In his remarks, Lion Bello also thanked the donors, construction workers, plumbers, painters, and everyone involved in executing the project. “The Lions are the heartbeat of service to humanity, and this project is a testament to that spirit,” he said, urging the incoming District Governor to continue the good work.

A Call for Continued Collaboration
Lion Princess Bridget Tychus, the Lions International Director overseeing Africa, delivered a message highlighting the need for ongoing community collaboration. She urged the Lagos State government to partner with Lions Clubs to extend similar initiatives to neighboring junior schools. “We may not have billions of naira, but we have billions of kindness in our hearts,” she said. “Collaboration with the government will enable us to deliver more social services to deserving communities.”
She also called on the incoming District Governor to heed the yearnings of the school and expand the scope of assistance — including a request for the renovation of the junior school.

Official Commendation 
The Deputy Governor’s representative, Hon. Tolani Ali Balogun, commended the Lions for their impactful contribution. “Your kindness in investing in the lives of our students is highly appreciated,” he said. “I challenge the principal and school authorities to make good use of these facilities to improve our students’ welfare.” He then formally cut the ribbon, marking the official commissioning of the new dining hall.

Other dignitaries present included Hon. Kayode Bolaji-Roberts, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Development; Mrs. Olufunke Adegoke, representing the Commissioner for Tertiary Education; Chairman of Ojo Local Government, Hon. Idowu Rosulu; Principal of Lagos State Model College, Fatide Francis Olugbenga; Principal of the Junior Model College, Dr. Adenike Olushola; Baale of Ira, Chief Ariyo Shuaib Oyewole; and Lion Adelaja Adeleye, the incoming District Governor.

Goodwill messages
Representatives of teachers, students, PTA, and alumni expressed heartfelt gratitude for the intervention, acknowledging the positive impact of the new facilities on students’ wellbeing and academic performance.
As the event concluded, it was clear that this project was more than the renovation of a dining hall—it was a reaffirmation of Lions Clubs’ mission: to serve and uplift communities, one effort at a time.