By Peter Omopo
Ijebu-Ode, July 20, 2025 — Secondary school principals and vice-principals from Oyo and Ogun states have commenced an intensive leadership training programme in digital literacy, cybersecurity, and strategic school management at the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI), founded by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The programme, known as the Advanced Certificate in School Leadership and Management (ACSLM), kicked off with an orientation event at OOLI’s campus in Ijebu-Ode. The training is aimed at equipping school heads with 21st-century skills needed to manage evolving educational challenges and foster innovative learning environments.
Speaking at the launch, Chairman of the OOLI Special Management Advisory Group, Professor Emeritus Peter Okebukola, said the training was tailored to real needs identified through a national survey of school principals.
“OOLI follows global best practices by first identifying training needs before developing and delivering content. This ensures the curriculum addresses actual challenges rather than assumed ones,” Okebukola said.
Former President Obasanjo, who also serves as Chairman of the OOLI Governing Board, addressed the participants, underscoring the crucial role principals play in nation-building through the education of children.
“Children spend more time under your guidance than with their parents. You are a powerful force in shaping their character and future. This training is specially designed to help you rise to this responsibility,” Obasanjo said.
The Director of OOLI, retired General Martin Luther Agwai, described the training as both a personal and national leadership journey.
“Today’s principals are not just managers—they are leaders tasked with navigating complex educational ecosystems, ensuring safety, governance, and innovation,” Agwai said.
The nine-week hybrid programme includes case studies, hands-on sessions, and virtual learning components. Topics to be covered range from financial management, strategic planning, school safety, and record-keeping to inclusive education, parent engagement, and international best practices adapted to local contexts.
Particular emphasis will also be placed on digital skills, cybersecurity, and the use of educational technology—crucial competencies in the modern education landscape.
Okebukola praised the Governors of Ogun and Oyo states, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Engineer Seyi Makinde respectively, for their support and sponsorship of the programme.
“Governor Makinde not only endorsed the initiative but also offered to serve as a future resource person for head boys and girls, drawing on his experience as a former head boy at Bishop Philips Academy,” he said.
He also lauded Ogun State’s Commissioner for Education, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, for prioritizing the programme, saying, “He cancelled key engagements to meet with the OOLI team—such is the value they place on educational leadership.”
Upon completion, participants will receive the prestigious Advanced Certificate in School Leadership and Management (ACSLM), positioning them as model school leaders across Nigeria and the African continent.
