Saturday was a day of celebration and nostalgia as the 1975 set of Akoko Anglican Grammar School, Arigidi Akoko (AKOGRAMS), marked their golden jubilee in grand style.
The milestone event, held on the school premises, drew dignitaries including former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and several industry leaders who are members of the 1975 graduating class.
In his remarks, Aregbesola, a proud alumnus, expressed joy at the transformation of the school over the years. He encouraged fellow old students to remain resilient in the face of life’s challenges and to stay connected to their roots.
He said, “Each time I reflect on the journey these past 50 years, I come to greater appreciation of the period I was in the school and I can say it was the most important period in my life.
“Though I hardly see any of you again, except occasionally and at moments like this, be rest assured that you are always in my thoughts. Your memory with me will be eternal.
“Some of us may be going through some challenges of health, finances, concerns about our children and grandchildren, the state of our nation and other matters individual-specific. But I want you to know that challenges are temporary; it is the courage we bring into it that is important.
“In closing, let me urge us all not to forget our alma mater. We should continue to contribute to its development in our little ways. The school is our collective memory and eternal reference. We should strive to take it to greater heights so it can continue to produce giants in all walks of life.”
Earlier in his address, the President of the 1975 set, Mr. Olaitan Ayeni, extolled the virtues of the alumni members, while he sought their cooperation.
Represented by National President of AKOGRAMS old students, Mrs. Mojisola Ajayi, Ayeni said, “To the glory of God, our set has produced professors, medical doctors, PhD holders, politicians of note, permanent secretaries, teachers, civil servants, businessmen and women, etc.
“I want to sincerely appreciate members of this set for your cooperation and particularly for your generous contributions in cash and kind to execute this milestone project — the Olympic-size, internationally recognised multi-purpose pitch for basketball, volleyball, table tennis, etc.
“Although we have not completed the project, we are 80 percent gone. What we have left is the fencing of the pitch. We have so far spent a total sum of ₦13,529,000 on the project and will still need close to ₦4,000,000 for the fencing.”
He added: “To our departed classmates, we pray that the good Lord will repose their souls and be with the families left behind.”
However, the Secretary of the 1975 set, Mr. Kayode Oyedele, urged the current students to imbibe the kernel of academic hard work.
“The current students should exhibit seriousness so that they can reach the peak of their careers.”
The 3-day event featured: health talk, medical checkup, basketball match, anniversary, and dinner.
