St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School in Badagry established in 1845 is assumed to be the first in Nigeria.
But the oldest primary school in Nigeria is Bishop Crowder LGA Primary school, founded in 1843 in Badagry.
It was however renamed St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School in 1845.
The school was founded by Rev. Golmer of the Church Missionary Society (CMS).
But, for the intervention of the lawmaker, representing Badagry Federal Constituency and an alumnus, the school wouldn’t have had a gate.
The headmistress also said that the school was yet to enjoy the attention of other alumni.
Its headmistress, Mrs Margaret Bull, said the school and its entire environment has been neglected over the years.
To her, being the oldest primary school in the country, the structures could be rehabilitated and the school turned to a tourist attraction site.
“The St. Thomas Anglican nursery and primary school, being the first, is an important aspect of the nation’s history and should be taken care of.
“The location, where the first structure of the school took-off, must be put in standard shape to attract tourists.
“The building is an important aspect of Nigeria history and, therefore, our government should renovate the structures which are dilapidated.
“Turning the school site into a tourist centre will be wonderful, as generations after generations can extensively visit the place and see the foundation site of the first primary school in Nigeria.’’
Source: https://franktalknow.com/
