Education stakeholders and community leaders in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, have expressed their appreciation for the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ) due to its significant contributions to educational development in the region. They highlighted the zone's various initiatives aimed at enhancing access to quality education, fostering young talents, and creating future opportunities for local youth.

In a statement released by Mr. Tope Anthony, the Public Relations Manager of OGFTZ, stakeholders commended the establishment of the China-Nigeria Friendship Model School, which has become a cornerstone of educational advancement in the community. The school, along with scholarship opportunities for deserving students and various academic, sporting, and extracurricular programs, has been pivotal in transforming the educational landscape in Igbesa.

Mr. Joseph Ibikunle, the Head of Academics and School Services at the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Education Authority, praised OGFTZ’s 15-year commitment to education, noting that the organization has made remarkable strides in improving school infrastructure and providing essential learning materials. He stated, "These interventions have contributed significantly to creating a more conducive learning environment and opening up educational opportunities for children across the host communities."

High Chief Ezekiel Durojaiye, the Otunba Amona of Igbesa, referred to the establishment of the China-Nigeria Friendship Model School as a notable legacy of OGFTZ. He remarked on the strengthened ties between Igbesa and China, humorously noting that the town is often referred to as "China in Nigeria" by locals and visitors alike. Durojaiye expressed optimism about the school's future, particularly regarding the potential expansion of its academic programs beyond the primary level.

Chief Ajidagba Jamiu, the family head of Ilu Idofin in Igbesa, shared personal insights into the benefits of OGFTZ’s educational initiatives, revealing that four of his children have attended the China-Nigeria Friendship School. He emphasized the school's value as an educational asset for families in the area and highlighted that some local students have benefited from scholarships to study in China, leading to successful careers in their fields. Jamiu called for an expansion of the scholarship program to enable more students to gain access to quality education and professional opportunities.

Alhaji Saheed Animashaun, Chairman of the Igbesa Educational Committee, also acknowledged OGFTZ’s ongoing commitment to educational and youth development initiatives. He noted that the organization consistently implements programs that benefit young learners, with annual events like Children’s Day celebrations serving to recognize and encourage local pupils. Animashaun pointed out that these initiatives go beyond mere celebrations and include academic, sporting, and cultural competitions designed to identify and nurture the talents of young people in the community.

The collective praise from community leaders underscores the positive impact of the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone's educational initiatives, which are seen as vital for the growth and development of future generations in Ogun State.