Discover the inspiring journey of Sir Jacob Oladele Maraiyesa KJW, an esteemed old student of Remo Secondary School. From educator and principal to author and community leader, his life reflects integrity, service, and a lasting legacy.
We celebrate Sir Jacob Oladele Maraiyesa KJW, a proud old student of the 1969/73 class set whose life reflects service, leadership, and integrity.
He began his educational journey at Methodist School, Sabo Yaba, before moving on to Remo Secondary School, Sagamu, where he was part of the 1969/73 class set. He furthered his education at CMS Grammar School, Bariga Lagos, then advanced to The Polytechnic Ibadan, and later the University of Lagos, where he earned a B.A. (Hons) as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. His years of academic pursuit were marked by determination and a commitment to excellence, qualities that shaped his career in the field of education.
From 1980 to 2014, Sir Jacob began as a class teacher in several schools across Lagos State before rising through the ranks to become Principal of Anthony Village Senior High School from 2001 to 2010, and later Principal of Muslim Senior College, Oworonsoki Lagos, from 2010 until his retirement in 2014. In his post-retirement years, he has continued to pour into society through writing and farming. In April 2024, to mark his seventieth birthday, he authored his autobiography, "Leading Men to Christ", a book that reflects his devotion to faith and leadership.
As a student of Remo Secondary School, he held the position of Captain of the Hockey Team and was known for his creativity, especially in composing songs for social nights, including the unforgettable “Jamala mi tan” performed during the first social night in January 1979. His favorite subjects were Geography and Yoruba, and he held an admiration for his Chemistry teacher, Mr. Pegba Otemolu. During those formative years, he shared close friendships with Segun Solana, Muyiwa Oso, and Temidayo Oremade, bonds that added joy to his journey.
Sir Jacob’s contributions to RSSOSA have been outstanding. Since 2016, he has served as the General Secretary of the 1969/73 Class Set. He also played a key role in coordinating the construction of a two-bedroom staff quarters at Remo Secondary School, Sagamu, to celebrate 50 and 55 years of admission and graduation. His class set consists of notable achievers including Arc. OPA Ladega, Mrs Mojisola Adeniyi, Mrs Temidayo Koyejo, Engr. Adewale Tikare, Pastor Kayode Gbadebo, Dr. Sola Okhiria, and many others excelling as doctors, professors, engineers, pastors, and leaders both in Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Beyond his achievements, Sir Jacob enjoys the simple pleasures of life. He loves singing and writing, with purple being his favorite color. His preferred dish is jollof rice with dodo and chicken, and he is guided by timeless quotes such as, “Honesty is the best policy,” “Heaven helps only those who help themselves,” and “We are all imitating imitations.”
The life of Sir Jacob Oladele Maraiyesa is an example of commitment to education, community service, and faith. His journey reminds us of the values of integrity, leadership, and legacy.
#rssosapersonalityoftheweek
#rssosamedia
#rssosa