By Taiye Olayemi
The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity and collective responsibility in navigating the nation’s diverse opportunities for sustainable development.
Omotoso made the call at the 2025 reunion lecture of the Anglican Grammar School (AGS), Iju/Itaogbolu (ITAJU) 1983 set, on Friday in Lagos.
The commissioner spoke on the topic: “One Nation, Many Paths: Navigating Nigeria’s Opportunities Together”.
He said Nigeria’s diversity, rather than being a burden, remained one of its greatest strengths.
He noted that ethnic, cultural, linguistic and religious differences could be harnessed to drive innovation, resilience and national growth.
“Our paths may differ, but our destination is shared. Every Nigerian desires a nation where peace, justice, prosperity and hope can flourish,” Omotoso said.
The commissioner described Nigeria as a country of immense potential, in spite of it facing economic headwinds, insecurity and infrastructure challenges.
He identified agriculture, technology, creative industries and renewable energy as key sectors with vast growth prospects, capable of generating jobs and expanding economic opportunities across the country.
According to him, agriculture offered opportunities for innovation and agribusiness, while Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy, particularly in fintech and e-commerce, continued to attract global investment.
Omotoso also noted that Nigeria’s creative sector, driven by Nollywood and Afrobeat, had gained global recognition, while renewable energy presented solutions for long-term energy security.
He emphasised that effective utilisation of these opportunities required collaboration among government, citizens, professionals, alumni groups, the private sector and civil society.
“Government alone cannot build the Nigeria we desire. Every positive action, no matter how small, contributes to national development,” he said.
Omotoso cited community-driven initiatives such as school rehabilitation, scholarships, community policing and diaspora remittances as examples of how collective action complements government efforts.
Speaking on Lagos State, Omotoso said the state had demonstrated the power of collaboration under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, through inclusive governance and the THEMES+ Development Agenda.
“Lagos shows that when people from different backgrounds work together, progress becomes inevitable,” he said.
The commissioner commended the AGS Iju/Itaogbolu 1983 set for sustaining unity after more than four decades and for giving back to their alma mater and communities.
He urged the alumni to continue mentoring young Nigerians and promoting unity, responsible citizenship and national development.
“As we walk different paths, let us remain committed to a shared future. Nigeria is a project worth building,” he said.
Omotosho expressed optimism that with unity, shared responsibility and purposeful leadership, Nigeria would not only survive but thrive.
Speaking earlier, Mr Segun Adeleye, President of the Itaju ’83 Set, said the association was building on the legacy of the previous administration, which initiated the refurbishment and equipping of the school’s Physics laboratory.
He noted that, in keeping with the tradition of giving back to the institution that united them over 40 years ago, the group had, in the past two years, introduced a prize-giving scheme for outstanding students at all levels.
“The association also fully sponsored the academic journey of a student, Olubodun Gbemisayo Taiwo, covering school fees, JAMB, WAEC, NECO, uniforms, textbooks, sandals, PTA dues and lesson fees throughout the student’s final three years,” he said.
Adeleye expressed delight that the student recorded an impressive WAEC result and had secured admission to Osun State University to study Computer Science.
He further observed that the period had also been marked by notable career advancements among several members of the association.
Looking ahead to the new year, he urged members to consider a group life insurance scheme, noting that they were all advancing in age.
He appreciated all members of the alumni association for their consistent and invaluable support over the years.
Also, a registered nurse at Alimosho General Hospital, Mrs. Opeyemi Durosanya, who delivered a health talk, advised members on healthy living, proper nutrition, regular exercise and routine medical check-ups.
Durosanya said, “As we advance in age, we should desist from stressful lifestyles. We must focus on eating healthy foods, minimise alcohol and soft drink consumption, and avoid excessive salt intake, as it can negatively affect the heart.”
