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On August 14, 2026, the Lagos State Government commissioned Nigeria’s first Alternative Secondary School for Girls at Old Ojo Road, Agboju Amuwo, Lagos, to provide a second chance at quality secondary education for girls whose schooling has been interrupted by social, economic, or personal circumstances.
The school was commissioned by Hajia Nana Shettima, the spouse of the Vice President, on behalf of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The commissioning marks the first institution of its kind in Nigeria and is designed to provide a supportive learning environment where girls can return to formal education, acquire relevant skills, and prepare for further academic and economic opportunities.
A second alternative school, located in Ikorodu, is expected to be commissioned soon, according to the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, Dr Aisha Garba, who added that the federal government is exploring further reforms and initiatives to expand the Alternative High School for Girls model nationwide.
In a keynote address delivered on her behalf, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to promoting education, empowerment, and opportunities for Nigerian girls, and suggested that at least one alternative secondary school for girls should be established in each of Nigeria’s senatorial districts.
“You can achieve what you want with dedication and resilience,” urging students to regard the school as a platform for rebuilding their dreams and equipping themselves with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become productive citizens.
Lagos State First Lady Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu stated that no girl should be written off because life interrupted her education, adding, “Every girl deserves a second chance.” She stated that the school had already restored dignity to girls who had never imagined life would smile at them again, and confirmed that through the Renewed Hope School initiative, the alternative school model has now been taken to all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, described the establishment of the school as a bold and innovative step.
