Renowned Anambra industrialist and CEO of Zobis Cables Ltd, Engr. John Ezeobi, on Wednesday, 19th June,2024, paid a surprise visit to his alma mater, Ede Secondary School in Okoti, Odekpe, Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State, to assess the school’s infrastructure.
Ezeobi, who attended the school from 2001 to 2003 and served as the Senior Prefect, was touched by the decaying infrastructure, particularly the school’s vulnerability to flooding during the rainy season. He said he was approached by the school’s owners to buy the property, but he declined, wanting to preserve the institutional legacy. He equally stated that the school harbours some part of his childhood memories and most importantly shaped him into what he is today in the society.
Despite the school being a private school, Ezeobi was moved to intervene, as the deteriorating infrastructure and environmental challenges posed significant obstacles to learning.
He has planned a two-phase project, which includes rebuilding classroom blocks, constructing modern toilets, and implementing flood control measures.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed within two months, after which the company will move on to the second stage which is expected to gulp several million of naira.
The industrialist expressed optimism that the impact on the school’s 350 students and new enrollments will have a positive effect on the community.
The project is being carried out under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Ezeobi’s company, Zobis Cables Industries Ltd.
The school’s administration has commended Ezeobi’s generosity, expressing excitement and a sense of rejuvenation as the institution returns to life through the efforts of one of its alumni.
Ede Secondary School was founded in 1994 by Chief Dr. Elder John Ugboma Okei (Ede 1 of Odekpe).