The educational landscape in Edo State has once again paused to celebrate one of the most transformational and visionary leaders in the private education sector, Hon. Osagie Godsent Erhunmwunse, the pioneer State Controller of the Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED), Edo State Chapter.
What began eight years ago as a modest gathering of determined school owners at Pathfinders Academy, Eyaen, in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, has evolved into one of the most respected educational advocacy movements in Edo State and beyond.
Despite criticism, institutional resistance, and several challenges at inception, Erhunmwunse remained resolute, demonstrating courage, resilience, and visionary leadership in building AFED Edo State from obscurity into a formidable educational body now widely recognised for shaping educational policies, promoting quality standards, and defending the interests of low-cost private schools across the state.
Many who once dismissed the association as “an organization of unregistered schools and disabled people” are now witnesses to the remarkable transformation recorded under his administration.
During his eight-year tenure, AFED Edo State witnessed unprecedented growth, expansion, credibility, and government recognition, emerging as a major stakeholder in educational development and policy engagement within Edo State.
Education stakeholders, private school proprietors, parents, community leaders, and members of the public have continued to shower encomiums on Erhunmwunse, describing him as “a trailblazer in educational advocacy,” “a defender of affordable education,” “a fearless voice for low-cost private schools,” and “a symbol of accountability, integrity, and selfless service.”
He has also been widely celebrated as the undisputed “Father of Low-Cost Private Schools” in Edo State.
Under his leadership, AFED Edo State established strong institutional systems and administrative structures while promoting teamwork, inclusiveness, and active leadership participation among members. His administration also witnessed the opening of the association’s first secretariat and the hosting of globally respected education scholar, James Tooley.
Erhunmwunse equally championed educational reforms that encouraged guidance, counselling, and student fellowship inclusion in secondary schools during the administration of former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki.
His tenure further recorded the successful implementation of educational intervention programmes such as
Among other achievements credited to his administration were the facilitation of approvals for over 100 AFED schools across the state, strengthening tax compliance and regulatory standards among low-cost private schools, initiating a coalition of private schools in Edo State, introducing the “AFED First” project, and launching the AFED Edo State Unified Examination initiative.
He also led the hosting of the first AFED National Conference in Edo State, expanded the association’s operations into 13 local government areas, facilitated the purchase of the first AFED Edo State secretariat land, and ensured financial remittance compliance to both national and local government chapters.
Stakeholders maintain that AFED Edo State today stands as a united, competitive, and forward-looking association largely because of the sacrifices, foresight, and leadership capacity demonstrated by Erhunmwunse throughout his stewardship.
In what many have described as an uncommon act of humility and statesmanship, Erhunmwunse recently declined his nomination to represent Edo State as the National Media and Communication Director of AFED, citing family commitments and new professional responsibilities following his relocation to Abuja.
Despite stepping aside from the position, reactions across the educational sector suggest that many stakeholders are unwilling to allow his leadership journey to end within AFED alone.
Across social media platforms, educational forums, and stakeholders’ meetings, increasing calls have emerged from private school owners, youth groups, community leaders, and education advocates urging him to take on broader leadership responsibilities in society.
Many believe his track record, administrative competence, courage, grassroots connection, and transformational leadership qualities make him suitable for greater public service at both state and national levels.
As tributes continue to pour in from within and outside Edo State, stakeholders insist that Hon. Osagie Godsent Erhunmwunse has firmly etched his name in gold as one of the most influential champions of affordable and quality education in Edo State.
Indeed, the “Father of Low-Cost Private Schools” in Edo State has taken a bow — not in defeat, but in honour, dignity, and enduring legacy.
