By Best Olowo & Faith Madogwe
For generations, the children of Okosuama, a riverine community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, watched from afar as education remained out of reach. Their parents had grown up without schools, and they, too, faced a future where classrooms, teachers, and textbooks were nothing more than stories from neighboring communities. In Okosuama, learning was not a right but a distant privilege—one that seemed unattainable.
That changed when one man decided to rewrite the story of his people. High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor, the Ogungbenwei of Niger Delta, refused to let another generation grow up without education. With his personal resources, vision, and determination, he built Benja Light Academy, the first-ever school in the community. This initiative was not just about constructing a building—it was about giving a future to children who had none.
Founded on September 25, 2024, the school stands today as a symbol of hope and transformation, proving that one person’s commitment can change an entire community.
A Day of Firsts: Okosuama’s Maiden Inter-House Sports Competition
On Friday, March 28, 2025, the school grounds, which had once been silent except for the sounds of children playing in the sand, came alive with excitement, cheers, and fierce competition. For the first time in Okosuama’s history, students, parents, and elders gathered to witness a milestone event—the school’s maiden inter-house sports competition.
The school, despite its young history, had already embraced the full spirit of education, including sports and cultural activities, ensuring that students received a well-rounded learning experience.
Speaking to GbaramatuVoice, High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor reflected on the journey that led to this moment.
“I grew up here. I know what it means to want to learn but have no school to go to. Our children deserve the same opportunities as those in the cities. I didn’t want to wait for the government or anyone else. I wanted to give back to my people, to make sure no child in Okosuama is left behind. And today, seeing them in their sports kits, running, laughing, competing—it fills my heart with pride. This is why I built this school.”
A Community United Through Sports
The students were divided into four houses, each carrying a name of great significance. White House was named after High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor, symbolizing leadership and vision. Blue House was named Tantita, representing security and resilience. Red House was named after General Adowei, a figure of strength and courage. Yellow House was named after Okosuama, signifying unity and pride.
The competition officially began with the 100-meter and 200-meter sprints. Barefooted runners pushed themselves to the limit, kicking up dust as they raced toward the finish line, fueled by the cheers of their fellow students and parents. The relay races brought another level of excitement as batons were passed with precision and determination, showcasing the students’ newfound discipline and teamwork. The toddlers, the youngest members of the school, had their special moment in the “Fill in the Basket” game, rushing around joyfully as their proud parents looked on.
However, the highlight of the event was the traditional dress showcase, where students donned their cultural attire with pride, reminding the audience that education goes beyond academics—it is about preserving heritage and identity.
A Hard-Fought Victory: White House Emerges Champion
The competition was fierce, with each house giving their best performance. But in the end, there could only be one winner. The results were announced, and the entire field erupted in cheers. White House, led by 13-year-old Saviour Akari, was crowned the overall winner. Yellow House emerged as the first runner-up, while Red House secued third place.
For many in Okosuama, this was more than just a victory in sports—it was a moment of deep significance. Saviour Akari, the young student who led White House to victory, shared her thoughts in an interview with GbaramatuVoice.
“I never imagined I would one day wear a school uniform, run in a race, and even win a competition. Before Benja Light Academy was built, I had no school to attend. I used to watch children from other communities go to school while I stayed home. But now, I am not just learning—I am competing, winning, and dreaming bigger. Today is one of the happiest days of my life.”
Teachers Reflect on the Journey
For the teachers who had worked tirelessly to shape the students, this day was a moment of deep pride. Mike Charity, one of the teachers at Benja Light Academy, expressed her emotions.
“These children are experiencing something new today. They are learning teamwork, discipline, and the joy of competition. Some of them had never worn a sports kit before. Some had never run a race before today. But look at them now—confident, excited, and hopeful. This is what education does—it opens their minds to new possibilities.”
The head teacher, Mr. Preye Dibekeme, who has been instrumental in building the school’s academic foundation, shared his reflections.
“When I first came here, I saw children who had never held a pencil before. Some of them didn’t even know their own ages because they had never been enrolled in school. Now, they are reading, writing, and even competing in sports. This is not just about today’s event; it is about their future. High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor has given them a gift that will change their lives forever.”
More Than a School—A Legacy in the Making
As the students celebrated their achievements, parents and elders stood watching, overwhelmed with emotions. Many of them had never set foot in a classroom, yet today, they saw their children not just learning but competing, excelling, and dreaming of more.
Standing among them, High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor watched with a satisfied smile, knowing that this was only the beginning.
“This school is more than just a building. It is a promise to our children that they will not be forgotten. We will continue to improve their learning environment, and this inter-house sports competition will now be an annual event. We want to raise students who are not just intelligent but also physically strong and proud of their culture. This is the foundation for a better future.”
As the sun set over Okosuama, the celebrations continued. But beyond the excitement of the day, a deeper realization took hold—this community had finally stepped into a future where education was no longer a privilege, but a right.
At the heart of it all stood one man who had seen a need and taken action. High Chief Benjamin Ekeremor did not just build a school; he built a legacy. And for the children of Okosuama, that legacy will last a lifetime.
