By Abdulrahman Aliagan
Forty years after their farewell from the hallowed grounds of Okelele Secondary School, Ilorin, the pioneer graduating class of 1984 returned in unity and celebration, not only to reconnect and reminisce but also to spark a collective call for the revival of their alma mater. The historic reunion, held at the school premises, drew alumni from across Nigeria and abroad—seasoned professionals in education, healthcare, law, engineering, and public service—marking four decades of achievement and shared purpose.
The atmosphere was rich with nostalgia as the 1984 set gathered alongside former teachers, present staff, and dignitaries to celebrate their milestone and take stock of the school’s current challenges. The event was chaired by the Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, who, after inspecting the school’s deteriorated facilities, directed the alumni to formally submit a report to his office for immediate attention. Representing him at the event was Mrs. Olawumi Oludare, a director in the ministry, who praised the alumni’s commitment and encouraged them to establish endowments for sustainable development.
The celebration also featured goodwill messages from prominent guests, including a representative of the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Hon. Abdulqoweey Cook Olododo, and a message from Alhaji Abdulmumeen A. Abdulmalik, President of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union.
In a passionate address, Professor Isiaka Zubair Aliagan, National President of the Okelele Secondary School Old Students’ Association and a member of the 1984 set, drew attention to the school’s deteriorating infrastructure—especially the impassable access road leading from the main Okelele road. He appealed to the Commissioner of Works for intervention and also urged the education ministry to prioritize the rehabilitation of dilapidated classrooms. “This institution built us,” he declared. “It must not be left behind.”
The reunion was especially symbolic as it took place under the leadership of Barrister Akanbi Abdulkadir Albarka, the current principal of the school and also a proud member of the 1984 graduating class. Professor Aliagan commended Barrister Albarka’s dedication and noted the visible strides made under his stewardship. The principal, in his remarks, recounted recent achievements and assured the alumni that, with their continued support, Okelele Secondary School would reclaim its place of pride in Kwara State’s educational landscape.
Delivering the keynote address was Dr. Falilat Jumoke Ajao, Head of the Department of Computer Science at Kwara State University, Malete. In her moving lecture titled “Paying It Forward: Giving Back to Our Alma Mater and the Community,” she emphasized the transformative power of education and the duty of successful alumni to uplift future generations. “We didn’t get here alone,” she reminded the audience. “It’s time to recognize our power to create opportunities for those who come after us.”
Dr. Ajao outlined five actionable strategies for alumni engagement:
- Gratitude through investment – contributing to scholarship funds for underprivileged students.
- Building bridges – creating networking events and mentorship opportunities.
- Enhancing educational resources – donating equipment and volunteering time.
- Creating a lasting legacy – associating one’s name with institutional transformation.
- Driving community impact – using skills to address societal challenges like digital illiteracy.
She also proposed a signature program titled “A Day of Mentorship and Empowerment”, where professionals return to the school to share personal journeys and inspire students. “Imagine the impact of a lawyer, a doctor, or a tech expert standing before young minds, not only to teach but to lift,” she said, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
Earlier, the 1984 Set Chairman, Mallam Abdullahi Isiaka, highlighted the extraordinary achievements of his peers, crediting their success to the foundational discipline, resilience, and values instilled by the school. “We were built here,” he said. “And what was built was strong.”
A deeply emotional moment came during the address of Dr. Toyin Akanbi, the school’s pioneer principal and former Provost of the Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin. His pride was palpable as he looked over his former students, now titans in their respective fields. “The seeds planted four decades ago have grown into mighty trees,” he said. “You are the legacy of this school.”
The gathering also remembered classmates and teachers who had passed on, offering prayers in their memory. Their names were spoken with reverence, their contributions etched in the living story of Okelele Secondary School.
As the day closed with laughter, music, and renewed bonds, one thing was clear: this reunion was not just a celebration—it was a call to action. The 1984 class left not just with memories, but with a collective mission to rebuild, to give back, and to ensure that the next generation of Okelele students would inherit a school even greater than the one they once knew.
