Top 10 Oldest Secondary Schools In Nigeria And When They Were Established
Nigeria’s educational history is rich and deeply rooted in the establishment of some of the oldest secondary schools that have produced leaders, scholars, and professionals who have shaped the nation. These institutions were primarily set up by missionaries, colonial authorities, and visionary leaders to provide quality education and instill values in the youth. Below is a detailed list of the top 10 oldest secondary schools in Nigeria, highlighting their histories and significance.
1. CMS Grammar School, Lagos (1859)
The Church Missionary Society (CMS) Grammar School is the oldest secondary school in Nigeria. Established in Lagos on June 6, 1859, by the Reverend Thomas Babington Macaulay, the school aimed to provide a Western-style education with Christian principles. Over the years, it has produced many prominent Nigerians, including Bishop Ajayi Crowther’s descendants and other notable figures in politics, religion, and business.
2. Methodist Boys High School, Lagos (1878)
Founded by the Methodist Church on May 14, 1878, Methodist Boys High School (MBHS) was established to provide a quality education rooted in Christian ethics. Located in Lagos, the school has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and discipline. Its alumni include great leaders like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first President.
3. Baptist Academy, Lagos (1885)
Baptist Academy was established in 1885 by Baptist missionaries. Located in Obanikoro, Lagos, the school was initially created to offer basic education to children of Baptist converts. Over time, it expanded to become one of the leading secondary schools in Nigeria, with a reputation for excellence in academics and extracurricular activities.
4. St. Gregory’s College, Lagos (1928)
St. Gregory’s College was founded in 1928 by Catholic missionaries. Situated in Obalende, Lagos, the school is named after Pope St. Gregory the Great. Renowned for its discipline and academic rigor, it has produced notable alumni, including former governors, professionals, and business moguls.
5. Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar (1895)
Established in 1895 in Calabar by the Church of Scotland Mission, Hope Waddell Training Institution is one of Nigeria’s pioneering educational institutions. It was set up to provide vocational and academic training to students, preparing them for leadership roles. Among its distinguished alumni is Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first President of Nigeria.
6. Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha (1925)
Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) was founded in 1925 by the Anglican Mission in Onitsha, Anambra State. The school was named in honor of Bishop James Johnston Dennis, a significant figure in missionary education. DMGS is known for its focus on academics and moral discipline, producing outstanding individuals in various fields.
7. King’s College, Lagos (1909)
Established on September 20, 1909, by the British colonial government, King’s College is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious secondary schools. Located in Lagos, the school was initially designed to train the sons of Nigerian elites for administrative roles in the colonial government. King’s College has since maintained its reputation for academic excellence and has produced numerous influential Nigerians.
8. Igbobi College, Lagos (1932)
Igbobi College was founded in 1932 as a joint effort by the Methodist and Anglican churches. Situated in Yaba, Lagos, the school’s mission was to foster academic excellence and Christian values. Its alumni network includes prominent individuals in politics, business, and academia.
9. Eko Boys’ High School, Lagos (1913)
Eko Boys’ High School was established in 1913 by Rev. William Slater to provide secondary education to boys in Lagos. The school focused on academic excellence and moral discipline, nurturing future leaders who would contribute to the development of Nigeria. Its rich history and contribution to education remain significant.
10. St. Anne’s School, Ibadan (1896)
St. Anne’s School was established in 1896 in Ibadan by Anglican missionaries. Originally founded as a girls-only institution, it was created to offer quality education and instill Christian values in young women. Over the years, St. Anne’s has maintained its legacy as a leading institution for academic and moral development.
Conclusion
These 10 oldest secondary schools in Nigeria stand as monuments to the country’s educational heritage. Their rich histories and contributions to national development cannot be overstated. From training future leaders to fostering unity among diverse ethnic groups, these schools have played pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape. By continuing to uphold their founding principles, these institutions remain beacons of academic excellence and cultural heritage.
