History of King’s College, Lagos:

Early Years (1909-1920)

King’s College, Lagos, was founded on September 20, 1909, by the British colonial government. The school’s establishment was aimed at providing quality education to Nigerian youths, particularly those from the Southern region. The first principal was Mr. Henry Macaulay, a Nigerian educator.

The school started with 10 students, including notable figures like:

1. J.C. Vaughan
2. Isaac Ladipo Oluwole (first senior prefect)
3. Frank Macaulay (son of Herbert Macaulay, a prominent Nigerian nationalist)
4. Herbert Mills (from the Gold Coast, now Ghana)
5. O.A. Omololu
6. Moses King

*Growth and Development (1920-1950)*

During the 1920s, King’s College experienced significant growth. The school’s enrollment increased, and new facilities were added, including:

1. A science block
2. A library
3. A sports ground
4. A boarding house

In 1926, the school was relocated to its current site on Victoria Island, Lagos. The new site provided more space for expansion and better facilities.

Academic Excellence (1950-1960)

King’s College became renowned for its academic excellence. The school produced outstanding students who excelled in various fields, including:

1. Medicine
2. Law
3. Engineering
4. Politics

Notable alumni from this period include:

1. General Aguiyi Ironsi (former Nigerian Head of State)
2. Chief Akintola Williams (first Nigerian chartered accountant)
3. Justice Kayode Eso (former Nigerian Supreme Court Judge)

Post-Independence Era (1960-1980)

After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, King’s College continued to thrive. The school maintained its high academic standards and produced prominent alumni, including:

1. General Olusegun Obasanjo (former Nigerian President)
2. Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi (renowned academic and administrator)
3. Mr. Bode Augusto (former Nigerian Minister of Education)

Modern Era (1980-Present)

In recent years, King’s College has continued to evolve. The school has:

1. Introduced modern curricula and teaching methods
2. Upgraded its facilities, including computer labs and sports infrastructure
3. Expanded its extracurricular activities, such as debate clubs and sports teams

Today, King’s College remains one of Nigeria’s most prestigious secondary schools, with a strong reputation for academic excellence and character development.

Notable Alumni

Some notable alumni of King’s College, Lagos, include:

1. General Aguiyi Ironsi (former Nigerian Head of State)
2. General Olusegun Obasanjo (former Nigerian President)
3. Chief Akintola Williams (first Nigerian chartered accountant)
4. Justice Kayode Eso (former Nigerian Supreme Court Judge)
5. Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi (renowned academic and administrator)
6. Mr. Bode Augusto (former Nigerian Minister of Education)
7. Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu (businessman and politician)

Legacy

King’s College, Lagos, has a rich legacy of producing outstanding individuals who have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, and community service continues to inspire generations.