Prominent Nigerians, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, His Eminence Cardinal John Onaiyekan, former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, and former Attorney-General of the Federation Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), gathered in Abuja to honour the legacy of the late educationist, Mrs Amaka Lauretta Ndoma-Egba, at the 5th Amaka Ndoma-Egba Memorial Lecture.
The annual lecture, hosted by Start-Rite Schools in partnership with the Victor & Amaka Ndoma-Egba Foundation (VANEF), focused on the theme, “Beyond Boundaries – Building Resilient Communities For Tomorrow.”
Represented by Dr Clifford Ogbede, Deputy Speaker Kalu chaired the event, describing Mrs Ndoma-Egba as a visionary whose belief in education as a tool for transformation continues to inspire. Cardinal Onaiyekan paid tribute to her life of service, compassion, and impact, noting that her dedication to education is still reflected in the excellence of the school she founded.
Delivering the keynote address, Donald Duke emphasised that sustainable development depends not on government alone but on citizens who invest in their communities. He urged Nigeria’s elite to uplift others and advised students to uphold discipline, describing life as a journey of learning, earning, and giving back.
Former AGF Kanu Agabi praised Mrs Ndoma-Egba for establishing an institution rooted in discipline and leadership, saying her legacy continues to influence national development through the values upheld by both the school and the Foundation.
Host of the memorial, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, said the lecture had grown into a platform that connects young people with thought leaders shaping Nigeria and Africa’s future. Start-Rite Schools Principal, Mr Femi Akinlade, announced a 77 per cent rise in enrolment over five years and nearly 90 per cent distinction in this year’s WASSCE results.
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Chairman of VANEF, Mr Joseph Oru, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to sustaining the late Founder’s vision through scholarships and community initiatives.
The event drew several dignitaries, including former Edo Governor Oserheimen Osunbor, former Justice Minister Chief Bayo Ojo, Justice Folashade Ojo, Bishop Anselm Umoren, and Senators Nicholas Ugbane, Mathew Mbu, and Musa Adede. It also featured an arts and photography exhibition showcasing students’ creativity and innovation.