By Reportcircle Abuja
In a ceremony brimming with political weight, spiritual presence, and educational promise, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, declared education “the greatest gift mankind can receive” as he unveiled the newly established The Grit Heights Secondary School Abuja in Wuse Zone on Saturday.
The event, attended by a constellation of national figures, marked the official entry of the ultramodern school into Abuja’s fiercely competitive private education landscape.
Flanked by high-profile dignitaries, Umahi described his presence at the unveiling as a personal honour, emphasising that education remains the foundation of national development and must be treated as a top-tier priority.
“I feel so honoured to unveil this school in the midst of other eminently qualified personalities. Education remains the bedrock of any nation,” he said, drawing nods from the distinguished audience.
Umahi reserved strong commendation for the school’s Chairman, Prof. John Kennedy Opara, applauding his impeccable record in agriculture and emerging leadership in the education sector.
“Prof. Opara has effectively managed a multi-million-dollar farm; we are confident he will manage this school equally well,” the Minister asserted.
The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, captured the mood of the moment, describing the project as a reflection of Opara’s proven excellence.
“When you visit his farm, you will see the difference; now you can see the difference here. This school is special in many ways,” he said, adding that Prof. Opara “has a very good finishing line.”
Prof. Opara, the pioneer Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, used the platform to issue a national appeal: governments at all levels must treat education as a strategic investment.
He explained that the newly completed school was conceived to offer students an inspiring environment for meaningful learning, character building, and leadership formation.
The dedication of the school was led by Apostle Joshua Selman, founder of Eternity Network International, whose blessing formally launched the institution into operation.
The unveiling drew an impressive crowd, including:
Acting Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
First Lady of Ebonyi State, Mary-Maudline Nwifuru
Former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Mike Ogadiome
Former Primate of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh
Several serving and retired members of the Bench
Their presence signalled the school’s positioning as a new centre of excellence for Abuja’s next generation of leaders.
The Grit Heights Secondary School, designed as a premium learning hub, promises an integrated model of academic excellence, moral grounding, and leadership training reflecting its founders’ ambition to reshape educational standards in the capital.
