The Nigeria Education News team recently toured Lisabi Grammar School in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as part of its special series on historic schools in Nigeria. Established in 1943 as Lisabi Commercial College before transforming into Lisabi Grammar School in 1961, the institution stands today as one of the oldest and most prestigious public secondary schools in the state. Known for its blend of academic rigor, vocational training, and moral discipline, the school has become a symbol of resilience and excellence in the Nigerian educational landscape.
Lisabi Grammar School stands as one of the oldest schools in Ogun State, with its origins tracing back to 1943. At the time of its establishment, there were only two other secondary schools in the entire Egba Division—Abeokuta Grammar School and Baptist Boys’ High School. Both schools were missionary-led, established by the Anglican and Baptist missions respectively. The limited number of secondary schools meant that many eager applicants were denied access to education, creating a pressing demand for new institutions.
The conception of Lisabi Grammar School was the brainchild of Julius Olusesan Popoola, a French and Latin teacher at Abeokuta Grammar School. In 1942, he proposed the idea of founding a new school to his wife, Chief Victoria Adesola Popoola, who herself was a teacher at Sagamu Girls’ College. Together, they envisioned an institution that would not only provide academic learning but also empower students with practical vocational skills.
From its inception, the vision for the school was clear. Julius Olusesan Popoola emphasized commercial training—students would learn shorthand, typing, and other business-related skills. His wife, Victoria, expanded the dream by introducing vocational aspects such as food and nutrition, tailoring, home management, fine arts, and handcrafts. This combination of academic and vocational training set Lisabi Grammar School apart as an institution committed to producing self-reliant graduates.
The school officially commenced operations in September 1943 at Ijoko, Abeokuta, with just 15 students. By December of that same year, enrollment had surged to 250 students—a remarkable growth fueled by several factors. First, the founders offered scholarships to needy but brilliant students, opening doors for many who might have been excluded. Second, their dedication and work ethic inspired confidence in both parents and students. Third, they provided boarding facilities to accommodate students from distant communities. Finally, they established a complementary primary school to prepare younger pupils for entry into the secondary school.
The passing of Julius Olusesan Popoola in February 1954 was a major turning point for the school. However, his wife, Victoria Adesola Popoola, carried on their shared vision with resilience and determination. Under her leadership, the school continued to thrive, eventually relocating to its current site in Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, by the early 1960s. This move cemented the school’s place as a landmark educational institution in Ogun State.
Government intervention also played a role in shaping the institution’s trajectory. In the 1960s, the Western Region Government initiated reforms that elevated commercial schools into comprehensive institutions offering arts, sciences, and commercial studies. As a result, Lisabi Commercial College became Lisabi Grammar School in 1961. By 1971, the school had graduated its first class of science students, broadening its educational scope.
In 1975, the government of the former Western Region took over all secondary schools, including Lisabi Grammar School, transitioning it into a fully public institution. This change further integrated the school into the state’s educational system while maintaining its historical roots.
The growth and development of Lisabi Grammar School did not stop with academics. In December 2022, the Lisabi Grammar School Old Students Association (LISABOSA) inaugurated a multi-purpose lawn tennis court at the school. The project, according to the association’s president, Oloye Muhyi-deen Kazeem, was designed to empower students morally, economically, physically, and mentally. The project was executed in phases, beginning with the reconstruction of the old tennis courts, followed by the installation of a protective wire fence, and finally, the construction of a seating area for spectators.
Over the decades, Lisabi Grammar School has produced graduates who have excelled in diverse fields both within Nigeria and abroad. The school boasts an impressive alumni network, with members who have become leaders in politics, religion, business, academia, media, and industry. The school’s alumni continue to give back to their alma mater, ensuring that its legacy endures.
Among its most notable alumni is Dr. Reuben Abati, a respected journalist, columnist, television anchor, and politician. Also on the list is the late Chief Bode Akindele, an industrialist and philanthropist of global repute. Pastor Tunde Bakare, a renowned cleric, lawyer, and activist, also walked the halls of Lisabi Grammar School, as did Simeon Borokini, the Bishop of Akure. Other distinguished alumni include Tunde Lemo, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and Chief Lekan Salami, a famous businessman and football administrator.
The contribution of Lisabi Grammar School to Nigeria’s manpower development is immense. Graduates of the school can be found working as accountants, lawyers, judges, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, and leaders of various industries. The diversity of professions reflects the well-rounded education the school has provided since its founding.
The resilience and vision of the Popoolas remain a central part of the school’s story. From humble beginnings with just 15 students, Lisabi Grammar School has grown into a reputable institution with thousands of graduates spread across the globe. Its legacy continues to inspire generations of students to strive for excellence in both academics and vocational skills.
Visiting Lisabi Grammar School today provides not only a glimpse into the history of education in Nigeria but also a reminder of the power of vision, resilience, and dedication in shaping institutions that last. The school’s historic journey from Lisabi Commercial College to Lisabi Grammar School represents the transformative power of education in society.
As part of our ongoing series on Nigeria’s historic schools, The Nigeria Education News team highlights Lisabi Grammar School as a beacon of knowledge, resilience, and legacy. Its history reminds us that education is not just about classrooms and textbooks but also about building skills, nurturing values, and preparing young minds for service to humanity.
Lisabi Grammar School remains a proud symbol of Abeokuta’s educational heritage. With its rich history, impressive alumni, and ongoing commitment to excellence, the school continues to shine as one of the cornerstones of education in Nigeria.
