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  • In honour of alma mater at 70

    In honour of alma mater at 70

    After seventy years, old girls of Lagos Anglican Grammar School, Surulere, held an inaugural global reunion themed Cherished memories, reunion and fundraising, to give back to the alma mater that nurtures generations of women. The gathering, which also witnessed the launch of 250million naira endowment fund, recently provided opportunities for the old girls to reconnect with one another while sharing fond memories of school days. Venue was the Arcade Hall, Eko Club, Surulere, Lagos, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports.

    For the first one hour, the camaraderie at the Arcade Hall, Eko Club Surulere, Lagos, was palpable as many engaged in backslapping, hugging, group and individual photo shoots including ‘selfies’ and exchange of pleasantries. The joy on their faces was immeasurable as many were seeing for the first time in decades after leaving school. Despite these years of going separate ways to different parts of the globe, they literarily put forward their ‘best in everything’ to honour their past, strengthen their present bonds and build a brighter future for their beloved alma mater. Their beautifully designed purple attire made from tie and dye fabric did not only symbolise strong bond, but also accentuated the aesthetics of the hall decorations and lightings. And it was a field day for phone camera users and professional photographers that dotted the expansive hall.  

    Welcome to LAGGSOGA Global Reunion and launch of 250million naira Endowment Fund, which was also the 70th founder’s day anniversary of Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, organised by the old students association in partnership with the school management.  

    President, LAGGSOGA, Mrs. Grace Ben-Okezie described the gathering as not just a reunion but a ‘call to action, and commitment to raise the banner higher by giving more back to the institution that nurtured us and continues to mold generations of young women.’

    She said for 70 years, Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School stood as a beacon of excellence, shaping young girls into women of integrity,

    resilience and purpose, lady-warriors designed to gracefully confront and vanquish challenges. She noted that every student carries cherished memories of ‘our time within our school’s walls memories of friendship, learning, and the values that have become the foundation of our lives; memories of corrections and guidance; memories that at times bring tears to the eyes.’

    According to her, the launch of the endowment fund was more than an expression of gratitude, but also a demonstration of their resolve to empower the school to meet the evolving challenges of modern education ‘as we raise more young girls of today to become graceful lady-warriors that will conquer tomorrow and in turn contribute to sustaining and embellishing the legacy.’

    “Our contributions today will help preserve this beautiful legacy and equip it to indeed inspire and shape future generations of leaders who can hold their own against the best anywhere and anytime,” she added.

    In her key note address, the former Lagos State Head of Service, (HoS) Mrs Josephine Oluseyi Williams, urged the alumni to encourage one another to serve as ambassadors of the school by promoting its values, mission, and achievements. She stated that the association can also amplify the institution’s achievements, hopefully, by educating our alumni that make it a white light in their previous endeavors. This, she said, would ensure that the school legacy remains strong.

    Mrs Williams, a 1967 set, said the reunion provided opportunity to write a new chapter in the life of the association, which calls for members to harness their collective power.  “It is not just as leaders, but as a united force under the banner of our alumni association. Empowering this association means empowering one another as well as our institution and the generation that will follow on our footsteps.

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    “We should encourage one another to serve as ambassadors for the alma mater by promoting its values, mission, and achievements with their respective network. We can also amplify the institution’s achievements, hopefully, by educating our alumni that make it a white light in their previous endeavors. And ensure that the school legacy remains strong and ready.

    She stressed that there is no undermining the potential of fundraising to drive positive change and make meaningful difference in the lives of students and the broader community.

    She therefore encouraged every alumnus, whether in Nigeria or in diaspora to get involve, noting that each member can either register for mentorship programmes or participate in fundraising campaigns.

    “Let us remember that as alumni we are not just old students. We are a collective force for change. We have the power to shape the future of our students and our community. We have the power to inspire, motivate, and empower the next generation of leaders. This association is not just an organization. It is a family. A family backed by shared experiences, aspirations, and commitment to making the world a better place. Together, we are unstoppable. Let us show the world what it means to be proud alumni of this great organization,” she added. 

    The hosting of the national reunion 70 years after the founding of the school meant much to the immediate past President LAGGSOGA, Mrs Yetunde Olatokunbo Ladega, who has spent about 20 years as secretary and president of the association. She recalled that she has been involved with the old girls association for long as she served two presidents as secretary before becoming the president.

    “I am excited that I’m alive and seeing some of my mates. I’m also excited that I’m seeing my seniors, some I didn’t meet in school, some I met when I was in school. I’m excited that I’m seeing the juniors too that were in school when I was in school. And also those who never met me, but some of them actually knew me when I was president. So it’s a joy for some of us to be seeing ourselves for the first time and also to put a name to the face,” she said. 

    To Ladega, the essence of the gathering is to thank God, celebrate the school, and celebrate themselves, while recognizing and giving awards to those who have done so well.

    “We can’t catch everybody, but some have been identified and we are giving them the award today. We are also celebrating the fact that we are able to give back to our school. Some of us left 50 to 60 years ago. We have a lady here who is one of the first set. She’s here with us. So it’s a joy, to be relating with her as if we are friends.

    President LASAGGOSA (UK/Ireland Chapter) Mrs Augustina Makasy, a member of 82 Global set, who came in from UK described the gathering as memorable and refreshing because it brought back sweet memories of those years when they were in school.

    “For the growth of our alma mater, we are launching a 250 million endowment fund to help finance some projects in the school. Interestingly, this is the first time we are having a national reunion. It is always good to give back to your school, irrespective of where you are,” she said. 

    Some alumni and corporate bodies who have consistently impacted the school positively were honoured at the event. On the honours list were Lady Olabisi A. Ayoku who got the Lifetime Achievement award for her lifelong contribution and commitment to her profession, community and alma mater. Ms. Busola Phillips, Mrs Yomi Labode, Mrs. P. F. Benson and Mrs. B. Durojaiye got the posthumous awards, while Outstanding Service Award went to Mrs. Jomion Olayinka Shogbola for dedication of her time, resources and expertise to support the alumni and the alma mater.

    Hon. Mojisola Meranda and HRH Olori Olufunmilayo Arinola Jibola-Oluyede got the Distinguished Alumni award in recognition of their remarkable achievements in professional and personal endeavours. But, Mrs. Adenike Oyefeso got the Excellence in Leadership Award for demonstrating exceptional leadership skills in her chosen field and community.

    Mrs. Olasubomi Iginla-Aina (MBE) got the Community Impact Award in recognition of her positive influence on her community through service and initiatives.

    Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award went to Mrs. Sola Salako-Ajulo for showing exceptional creativity and success in business/innovative projects.

    Honorary Alumni Award for significant contribution to the success of the 70th Anniversary was given to Lotus Bank, Nigerian Bottling Company Plc, and Nigerian Breweries Plc, while Generational Legacy Award went to Ijoma  Inyang family for being the family with three generations of women who attended Lagos Anglican  Girls’ Grammar School, Surulere, Lagos.

    The journey of LAGGSOGA has been a bumpy one as there were efforts to found the LAGGSOGA many years ago, but was on and off until 1991/1992 when it stabilized. A meeting was hosted by late Mrs Yomi Labode who was then the Principal, which enabled old girls to connect with her. The first president of the association was Mrs Patience Fehintola Benson (the first Head Girl) who passed on last year. She was succeeded by Mrs Ladun Durojaiye (2004-2015), Mrs. Tokunbo Ladega (2015-2023) and currently Mrs Grace Ben-Okezie.  

  • Old students in push to revive alma mater with N1b

    Old students in push to revive alma mater with N1b

    Ekiti Baptist High School Old Students Association (EBHSOSA) has intensified efforts to raise N1 billion to improve their alma mater’s infrastructure and address challenges of the 68-year-old school.

    Speaking in Lagos at the fundraising programme, its President, Ifelola Oyebade, said the school which was established in 1956 faces the strain of its aging infrastructure, compounded by the financial constraints imposed since the government took over in 1976.

    According to him, the funds raised will be utilised to produce a state-of-the-art educational facility, addressing the prevailing reality that governments globally struggle with insufficient resources to manage schools effectively.

    “The Endowment Fund Mega Launch is a response to the pressing need for sustainable funding to revitalise our school’s facilities and introduce legacy projects. The ambitious target for the endowment fund is set at N1 billion, with a hopeful outlook of N5 billion,” he said.

    Drawing inspiration from global models, Oyebade cited Harvard University as a prime example of the success an endowment fund can bring.

    Read Also: ‘Join plans to build our alma mater’

     “Harvard, the richest university in the world, amassed over $220 billion from their endowment fund. We aim to replicate this financial success to secure a brighter future for our schools,” he said.

    The initiative also calls upon friends of the school, alumni, private and public institutions, and donor agencies to join hands as development partners.

    Highlighting the urgency of the school situation, Oyebade stressed the need to address  challenges, including outdated facilities, dilapidated infrastructure, and an increasing student population.

    The launch, serving as the external phase, followed a successful internal launch among alumni on February 11, 2023.

    Encouraging active participation, Oyebade said: “Your support for the Endowment Fund project is an investment in the future – one that makes a real difference in the lives of the students and staff.”

    The president pledged transparency and efficiency in fund utilisation, highlighting the diverse committees formed to oversee the project.

    “We have auditors, engineers, and accountants on the committee. We meticulously evaluate projects, ensuring accurate costing and efficient use of resources,” he said.

    Acknowledging the continuous flow of donations since the launch, he said: “We’ve already raised over N22 million, and every contribution counts. We invest the funds wisely, with the interest generated directly funding the school’s development.”

    He expressed hope that this event would mark a turning point in the school’s journey toward becoming a nationally competitive institution, a source of pride for Ekiti State and the entire nation.

    Chairman of the fundraising occasion, Sen. Anthony Adefuye, emphasised that a donation to a school is a help to humanity.

    “We are giving free education. We are doing our best in education. I got free education throughout my schooling time.”

    A Consultant with the World Health Organisation (WHO), and an alumna from 1966 to 1970, Dr Funke Adebajo-Oluyeba, who expressed concerns over the school’s decline since its transition from Baptist convention to government management, emphasised the urgency to raise funds for  improvement.

    “We want to restore the school to its former glory and show the younger generation the privilege of passing through this esteemed institution,” she said.

    Dr. Adebajo-Oluyeba, who also spearheaded the mega fundraising initiative, said the fundraising efforts have been nothing short of extraordinary, with old students diligently working to amass millions of naira.

  • ‘Join plans to build our alma mater’

    ‘Join plans to build our alma mater’

    Members of Birch Freeman Old Boys Association (BIFOBA) have been urged to join the train of building the association together to serve the school and not themselves.

    The newly elected BIFOBA President, Gen. Anthony Onibasa, said this in his inaugural speech, after the handing over and swearing in new executive members of the body.

    The event, which was held on Sunday, at BIFOBA Hall, had in attendance, members of the association from different sets.

    Onibasa promised that he, alongside other exco members would strive to achieve unity, mutual support and build stronger network, while ensuring that members of the association are on the same page.

    “My fellow elected executive council and I promise to vehemently work towards achieving one united, undivided and progressive BIFOBA.

    “It is time for progressive change. It is time to put our egos under and put on our cloaks of meekness. It is time to take our place in the comity of legacy school and we must work as one to accomplish this task.

     “I shall provide servant leadership that will allow the best of us to serve the rest of us,” he pledged.

    He also urged members of the association to “recreate a BIFOBA that will work for the school, its students and the entire membership of the association. To this end, we shall, working with all members, strive to improve facilities in the school, and reignite the tradition of “trained for duty and for thee.

    “I am, therefore, appealing to old boys here present and those who shall hear or read this speech in days to come, to join this train and let us build BIFOBA together to serve the school and not ourselves; let us build our school together.”

    Read Also: CMS Bariga old students make case for alma maters

    Frances Van-Lere, from 1970 set,, urged the association members to abide by the vision of the founding fathers, by respecting the constitution, being transparent and adhering to rules of law, as this would curtail crisis.

    “Right now, we have crisis in the association. I am saying that enough of the crisis. This 2024, we must settle our differences because of this children that we are trying to help, are the ones suffering. There are works to be done here. We need to carry on more projects in the school. Currently, we are building a project that would be completed soon,” he said.

    BIFOBA’s pioneer president, Dipo Olokun, an engineer, urged the members in diaspora to come on board to move the association forward.

    His words: “Every member of BIFOBA should come together and impact our union. They should not fight us from outside. They should join us.”

    Election of the association’s executive committee members was conducted on an e-voting platform (election runner) on November 19, 2023, with 82 accredited voters.

    Ten elected members were sworn in, ranging from the President, Vice president (School Affairs), Vice President 2 (Govt Affairs), Secretary- General, Asst. Secretary-General, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Public Relations Officer, Social Secretary and Welfare Officer.

  • ‘Give back to alma mater’

    ‘Give back to alma mater’

    • 92/98 ApolloGrams gives renovated classrooms to school

    Chief Executive Officer of Aerofield Homes Limited, Armstrong Akintunde, has advised old students associations of Christ Apostolic Grammar School (ApolloGrams), Iperu-Remo, to give back to their alma mater.

    Akintunde, who is also the chairman of 92/98 ApolloGrams, gave the advice during the 25th anniversary and reunion of the set.

    The old students handed over to the school newly renovated block of four classrooms and offices.

    Akintunde said the quality of education given by the school has helped them a great deal to navigate the journey of life.

    “We all know the impact of early education usually given by the primary and secondary school in the life of an individual and I want to say that the quality of education we all received while at our great school, ApolloGrams, has really helped us to be who we are today. In a way, we can’t separate our greatness from this school and that is why we have deemed it fit to have a get together 25 years after our graduation.

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    “We want to see what we can also do to move the school forward because we know that the humongous challenges in the education sector should not be left for the government alone.

    “We should see it as point of duty, especially as old students, to give back to these schools that played very significant roles in what we have become today.”

    Akintunde remarked that it was surprising that 25 years had gone since he and his other mates left the school.

    The chieftain of the All Progressives Congress appealed to his mates to join hands with him in adding more value to their alma mater.

    The old students during the reunion, presented items such as freezers, washing machines, generators and dryers to some of the teachers who taught them and some  residents of Iperu community who came to rejoice with them.

    Former Deputy Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Orisalade Adetunji Taiwo, who doubles as the National President of the Old Students Association, Christ Apostolic Grammar School, lauded the old students for adding value to the school.

    “The government can’t do everything, I want to commend the efforts of the sets that are celebrating this year, both the old students and the parent teachers associations all have their roles to play in developing education in our society,” he said

    The Principal of the senior section of the school, Mrs. Onasanya, who could not hide her joy over the thoughtfulness of the old students,  said their donations for the progress of the school was unprecedented, praying the Almighty God to continue to bless them all and preserve them for greater service to humanity.

    Oba Lukman Adebambo Salami Ebi of Idena, Iperu Remo, expressed happiness over the contribution of the set to the development of the school.

     “This is, however, not the only school in this community, I encourage other old students across various secondary schools to emulate this kind gesture, which will no doubt help to add greater values to our education sector.”

  • Alumni’s furniture gift lifts alma mater

    As part of efforts to ensure that pupils of Ewutuntun Senior Grammar School, Oshodi, Lagos have unfettered access to learning, the school’s Class of 93 recently donated 30 sets of classroom furniture to the senior arm of the school.

    Presenting the chairs and desks last Tuesday, the association’s President, Dr Edino Ezekiel, noted that the gesture was to give back to the school which moulded them, to ensure it continues to rank among the best schools around.

    “We are giving back to the school because the school made us what we are today.  This is our root, and we will make sure it does not suffer even if it is being neglected by government in some areas.

    “We know government cannot do everything, that is why we are striving to make the school a standard institution that can compete with any private school,” he said.

    While promising to extend the gesture to the junior arm, Ezekiel said the association was formed to support the school in all aspects, noting that they had donated computers, printers, built a borehole and even sponsored some students to leadership programmes.

    Other members of the Class of 93 in attendance included Calistus Nzeh (Chairman Board of Trustees), and Fatai Sanni (Head boy 93 set).

    In her speech, principal of the school, Mrs Grace Oderinde, thanked the alumni for their continuous support and goodwill towards the school generally.

    On his part, the outgoing Principal, Mr Ayo Afolayan, praised them for the donation, adding that the school had lost chairs and tables to a fire incident.

    He said: “I thank the 93 set for their various donations to the school. This is not the first time they would be donating to us. Now, they are giving us new sets of furniture to replace the burnt ones.”

    Also, Sanni, Headboy of the 93 set, noted that the alumni would continue to work to ensure the development of the school.  He urged the pupils to study hard, noting that the association would institute sessional awards to encourage exceptional ones among them.

    Victor Oyebode, popularly known as Boy Alinco, who was invited by the old students for the event, urged the pupils to be good citizens who would change the face of the country.

    He advised them to be hardworking and choose a legacy that would make them distinct.

    The school’s Acting Head boy, Philip Akapo, thanked the alumni for their intervention. He said  inadequate furniture had been a major challenge in the school.

  • 60th anniversary: Old Boys pledge to transform alma mater

    Old boys of Oraukwu Grammar School in Idemili North Local Government Area,Anambra State, have announced plans to restore the lost glory of their alma mater.

    The school, which has produced many distinguished personalities in various fields of human endeavour was founded in 1959 by some missionaries.

    With negligence over the years, the 60-year-old school looks very much its age.

    Speaking on preparations for the school’s diamond jubilee coming up on Saturday, April 20, National President of the association,  Barrister Vincent Ananti, said the main task before the old boys is to make the school conducive for learning for both workers and students.

    He said some of the old boys had built dormitories, classrooms, quarters for the principal and other infrastructure.

    He lamented that rural-urban migration had  reduced the school’s population.

    To address this, he said the old boys believe that with modern facilities, the school would  attract quality teachers and pupils.

    National Vice President of the association, Dr Anthony Chukwuka, said a meeting of some old boys, including Justice Dilibe Amechina; owner of Greenlife Pharmaceutical, Obiora Chukwuka; Anglican Arch Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Arch Bishop Godwin Okpala;,lmo State  INEC Commissioner Prof Emeka Francis Ezeonu  and the traditional  rulers of Ogidi and Oraukwu, among others, agreed  to invest in the school.

    He said one of them decided to sink a  borehole to ensure steady water supply, while others promised to fence the school.

    He said: “Individually, a lot of us took responsibilities. We want to provide a conducive environment for the teachers and students .The old boys association was formed in 1979 and we have celebrated our 10, 25 and 50 years anniversaries. But for the past five years, we have been discussing on how to make our diamond jubilee memorable. The school is among  those that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi handed over to the church in 2013. Right now, the management of the school is in the hands  of the church while government pays the workers. But we as old boys are emotionally attached to the school because it is one of the institutions that made every one of us whatever we are today. Just as the fish cannot deny the importance of water,  we cannot deny the role  the school played in our lives. That is why we want the current students  to be more seriouas in their studies  and  contribute quota to the development of the school.

    On his part, the anniversay co-ordinator, Akachukwu Ezeobele said though schools in Anambra State have closed for the Easter break, Oraukwu Grammar School was given one week extension to enable its pupils participate in the diamond jubilee celebration.

    He said that the  event  would begin with a re-union on Friday, while on the D-day, Saturday, some of the old boys who have distinguished themselves in service to the school and humanity would be honoured with awards to encourage other members  serve  the society.

  • Old students in Diaspora lift alma mater

    Some old students of Saint Charles High School, Osogbo, Osun State, in the Diaspora, have lent their support to the students of the school.

    In a ‘No Student is left behind’ gesture, Charleans in Diaspora lent their support to St  Charles High School Students, Osogbo with over N1 Million.

    In his statement a statement by the President, Charleans in Diaspora, Charlean Yemi Ajijolaiya appealed  to the members of the association to give back to  the alma mater by ensuring that all the final year students, regardless of sex or socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to sit for the next West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE).

    It was not the first time the Charleans in the Diaspora would respond to clarion call to support the school to run quality administration towards producing tomorrow great leaders. Sometimes last year, they paid a log of past dues of the school’s electricity bill so as to restore electricity, disconnected for many years of darkness to the school community.

    Also in 2018 year, the body also organized ‘Excellent Awards’ where 34 students and their teachers received about half a million naira.

  • Pasuma celebrates birthday, commissions classroom blocks in alma mater

    Fuji maestro, Wasiu Alabi Odetola popularly called Pasuma has marked his 51st birthday on a low key.

    Popularly known as Oga Nla, he took to Instagram to express his thanks to God.

    “Ya Allah,” he wrote.

    “Thank u for another year and all the experiences that u gave me this past year..

    Thank u for givin’ me all d success & achievements dat will always be happy memories for me..

    Thank u for givin’ me all the happiness that gave me time to celebrate..

    Thank u for givin’ me all the sadness that reminded me of my own weaknesses & made me realized that I really need u to be my guide & light in my life..

    Alhamdulillah for every blessing Allah has given me. LLnP to me.”

    Earlier last Wednesday, Pasuma visited his alma mater, Muslim Mission Primary School, Mushin, to commission the ten block of classrooms recently renovated by the Pasuma Fans Club in the community.

    Addressing the pupils, Pasuma urged them to face their studies.

    “I was once like you people because I started from this school,” he said.

    “My music career started here and I will always remember having the school as part of my foundation years.

    “I usually sing in the school with my friends during breaks and I can never forget the impact the school had in my life.”

    He promised that the renovation of the classrooms is only part of the grand plans he has for the community school.

    To celebrate his golden age last year, Pasuma shared food, drinks and other relief materials to the less privileged.

    Pasuma was born on November 27, 1967 in Mushin by Mr and Mrs Otedola from Kwara State. He completed his secondary education at the Nigeria Model School, Okota, Lagos in 1984 and after he was unable to pursue his education, he opted for fuji music.

    He hit the limelight after the release of his song title, Orobokibo in 1995. The song earned him a special recognition as the Best Fuji artiste by AMEN and FMA Award respectively.

  • Pasuma celebrates birthday, commissions classroom blocks in alma mater

    Fuji maestro, Wasiu Alabi Odetola popularly called Pasuma has marked his 51st birthday on a low key.

    Popularly known as Oga Nla, he took to Instagram to express his thanks to God.

    “Ya Allah,” he wrote.

    “Thank u for another year and all the experiences that u gave me this past year..

    Thank u for givin’ me all d success & achievements dat will always be happy memories for me..

    Thank u for givin’ me all the happiness that gave me time to celebrate..

    Thank u for givin’ me all the sadness that reminded me of my own weaknesses & made me realized that I really need u to be my guide & light in my life..

    Alhamdulillah for every blessing Allah has given me. LLnP to me.”

    Earlier last Wednesday, Pasuma visited his alma mater, Muslim Mission Primary School, Mushin, to commission the ten block of classrooms recently renovated by the Pasuma Fans Club in the community.

    Addressing the pupils, Pasuma urged them to face their studies.

    “I was once like you people because I started from this school,” he said.

    “My music career started here and I will always remember having the school as part of my foundation years.

    “I usually sing in the school with my friends during breaks and I can never forget the impact the school had in my life.”

    He promised that the renovation of the classrooms is only part of the grand plans he has for the community school.

    To celebrate his golden age last year, Pasuma shared food, drinks and other relief materials to the less privileged.

    Pasuma was born on November 27, 1967 in Mushin by Mr and Mrs Otedola from Kwara State. He completed his secondary education at the Nigeria Model School, Okota, Lagos in 1984 and after he was unable to pursue his education, he opted for fuji music.

    He hit the limelight after the release of his song title, Orobokibo in 1995. The song earned him a special recognition as the Best Fuji artiste by AMEN and FMA Award respectively.

  • CUAB: A Galaxy of Stars

    Alumni and Alma Mater are two primordial words that refuse to go into extinction with a primordial language called Latin. The refusal of those two words to go down the drains of history as sustained by the imperishable values they represent in the cotemporary world is a further confirmation that the universe is truly dynamic. We are living witnesses to that factual assertion.

    Ordinarily, if anything is deemed different between the world of the past and that of the present, it is the utilization of the values in both as relevant to their times of existence.

    Perhaps the above assertion is what a private University called Crescent in Abeokuta, Ogun State of Nigeria is accentuating today with its uniqueness in turning a historic legacy into an incredible heritage.

     

    Connotation  

    Galaxy is a celestial world in which stars of all sizes, shapes and measures dwell dramatically sometimes to the consternation of all other existing creatures. Without galaxy, there can be no place for stars to display their skills. And without stars it may be difficult to fully appreciate the values of galaxy. Thus, the co-existence of both is what keeps the universe going through the days and nights that graduate into weeks, months and years in the life of man.

    The co-existence of galaxy and stars as cited above is a parable through which the symbiotic relationship of the Alma Mater called CUAB and its graduates called alumni is exhibited despite the relatively young age of both.

     

    CUAB As a Galaxy

    In its own terrestrial right, CUAB is a Nigerian galaxy that provides a befitting intellectual habitat for its alumni even as the latter keep the glory of the former aloft with moral equipment in all parts of the world. That habitat is not of intellectualism alone. It is rather more of good character which CUAB considers as the main propeller of dignity in all spheres of human life. In CUAB, education without good character is like smoke without fire which can neither cook nor produce coal for other purposes. To this exemplary University, Character is a major factor in the assessment of education and civility in man which should not be compromised in any circumstance. Any man who claims to be educated must be a model of good character. A supposed educated person who lacks good character is like a crown prince who dances naked to an inaudible music in an open market. That is exactly how the Crescent University perceives any University graduate without good manners. And that explains the reason for CUAB’s placement of premium on good manners for any student that passes through it. Take a second look at any graduate of Crescent University anywhere and you will immediately feel the aura of discipline and morality.

    The name Crescent is symbolic of both dream and realization. And just as the tiny celestial Crescent  gives birth to the gorgeous moon so does the moon turn round to rekindle the glow of the crescent. It is a dynamically reciprocal function carried out naturally. Thus, in what seems to be a natural continuum, the cycle of life rolls on progressively to infinitude.

     

    The impact of CUAB

    Today, Crescent University, Abeokuta (CUAB), is quietly reshaping the structure of Nigerian society by moulding a new generation of men and women that can be called worthy Nigerian citizens. Within 13 years of its existence, this glorious citadel of knowledge and excellent morality has signaled to the entire world that University is not merely for obtaining meal tickets in the name of certificates but an indispensable hub of positive signposts for human civility. That signal is evident in virtually all the graduates of CUAB who have distinguished themselves vertically in various fields of human endeavours where others of their peers are only struggling to seek survival horizontally. With such an exemplary impact, therefore, it cannot be strange that full concentration on good character-based education and its adequate usage for the benefit of mankind is the priority of the Crescent University.

     

    A Country’s Attitude   

    In a country like Nigeria where good deeds are hardly noticed or acknowledged, it cannot be a surprise that Crescent University has not attracted the attention of any government (State or Federal) for an encouraging accolade that can pave way for impeccable emulation. But the consolation here is that while Nigeria for which the graduates of CUAB are intentionally produced for development remains indifferent, some foreign countries that appreciate the quality embedded in morality and are benefiting tremendously from the prowess of CUAB graduates continue to ask for more. This confirms that the likes of CUAB alumni in Nigerian universities are very, very rare.

     

    Parent’s Reaction

    Some Nigerian parents who had planned to send their wards abroad for University degrees but decided to change their minds and take such wards to CUAB can testify to the facts above. The decision of those parents paid off in terms of the comfort they now enjoy in monitoring their wards effectively against consumption of illicit drugs and involvement in such iniquities as rape, sodomy and lesbianism which are particularly rampant in Western countries. Besides, the cost of financing those wards in CUAB is much cheaper than keeping them abroad where thorough monitoring is almost impossible.

     

    African Attitude

    Incidentally, It is a well known fact that in Africa where imitation is a norm, great values are not appreciated in the lands of their dwellings. If all students of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions were exposed to the same intellectual and humanitarian orientation as that of CUAB, perhaps Nigeria would not have become a pariah country that she is today.

     

    The Super Stars

    Among the super star graduates that form the Crescent galaxy that fly the flag of CUAB around the world are the following:

    1. Rafiat Alli, a 2013 first class B.Sc graduate of Accounting. She went to the United Kingdom (UK) where she also stood out of the pack by emerging as the best M. Msc. student with distinction in Forensic Accounting at Pretsmouth University, UK.
    2. Adenike Gawat who made a first class B.Sc in Mass Communication at Crescent University and was helping a Nigerian bank to build an ICT department when she won a scholarship to study for M. Sc. at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland where she topped the ladder of academic work to clinch a distinction at M.Sc level in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs in 2014. It was Adenike’s character and not just academic brilliance that forced her lecturers in Gordon University to become inquisitive about her academic background in Nigeria. That university had to send some staffs to Crescent University to ascertain the authenticity of Gawat’s claim that she graduated from a Nigerian private university. And after confirming that claim, the university became eager to have more students from CUAB for masters and Ph. D in Gordon. That was an excellent matter of Honour for Nigeria at the instance of a well mannered Nigerian student from CUAB. And when Adenike finally graduated with distinction at masters level from Gordon University and returned to Nigeria to pick up  a job, she became a darling job seeker that every employer wanted for boosting of business with honesty influenced by morality. But while she was still ruminating on which of those jobs to settle down with, an international bank in Switzerland traced her to Nigeria and hijacked her for a fantastic job with fantastic package.
    3. The best graduating student at the 7th convocation of Crescent University was Miss Oyinkasola Fagbohun. In her valedictory speech, this 20 year old distinguished student dismissed the surreptitious insinuation that private university certificates in Nigeria are cheap. This is how she expressed her view on the matter: ” I was one of those who always thought that private schools were a piece of cake but to my surprise it wasn’t like that. In fact, it was not a business as usual here (in CUAB)….”. Fagbohun led 434 other students from Colleges of Information and Communication Technology, Natural and Applied Sciences, Social and Management Sciences as well as Environmental Sciences to emerge as the 2015 best graduating student thereby winning the vice chancellor’s prize, the college prize and the departmental ( Economics) prize respectively.
    4. The best 2013/2014 graduating student of crescent University, is Ibrahim Ayoola Olatunde. As the valedictorian of that academic session, he eloquently revealed the secret of his success in a captivating manner.

    Four years before his graduation, Ibrahim Ayoola Olatunde was in the crowd when Fatimot Titilope Ajagbe was celebrated as the best graduating student of Crescent University.  According to him, it was on that day, as a 100-Level student, that he also decided to work hard to score a Cummulative Grade Point Agregate (CGPA) that could make him the CUAB’s valedictorian of his graduation session. That desire, backed up by unflinching determination, was fulfilled when the young man led 247 fellow students to emerge as the best graduating student for the 2013/2014 academic session.

    The then 23-year old man graduated with a Cumulative Grade Point Aggregate (CGPA) of 4.76 from the Computer Science Department, College of Information and Communication Sciences (CICOT) of the university. Below is what he had to say on that occasion:

    “I became determined to take the prize when I witnessed the 2010 Best Graduating Student, Fatimot Titilope Ajagbe speak of her success. I told myself that if a female student could bag the award, then I could also develop myself to achieve the same feat”. He added that getting permission to leave the campus only three times in a month, according to CUAB’s regulation helped him very much to manage his time and academic resources in such a way as to be imbued with the type of discipline not known with most Nigerian Universities.

    All the above mentioned students and others whose names are not mentioned here have either gone for their post graduate studies in various parts of the world outside Nigeria or secured gainful and qualitative employment in first class companies and establishments. These were possible not because of their academic brilliance alone but because of the non-such character that stands them out of the pack . They are the worthy ambassadors of their country Nigeria.

     

    CUAB’s 2018 Convocation

    On Saturday, October 20, 2018, according to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Crescent University, the 10th graduation ceremony of the 13-year old citadel of academic and moral excellence will come up in the main auditorium of the University as usual. On that occasion, this year’s nominated valedictorian, Miss Ayokunnumi Tiamiyu has, in preparation for her impending historic valedictory speech,   showered accolades on the Founder and Proprietor of CUAB, His Excellency Judge Bola Ajibola for reviving her university education through scholarship when she was on the verge of dropping out owing to her parent’s inability to continue to pay her tuition fee. The jubilant 21-year old Tiamiyu will be leading the pack at the 10th convocation with a Cumulative Grade Point Aggregate of 4.91 from the  Department of Microbiology, College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CONAS).

    With her CGPA of 4.91,Ayokunnumi Tiamiyu has emerged the very best of all the best products of Crescent University who have graduated with First Class so far.

    According to the scholar, she had already lost hope of continuing her studies at Crescent University and was almost requesting for her transcript to be able to  seek admission into a public university when her attention was drawn to Bola Ajibola Scholarship for Academic and Moral Excellence. That was during her 200-level in 2016, when she was on a grade point of 4.95, the highest any student of Crescent University has ever scored.

    In her narration, she stated as follows: “a few months later,I got a call from the Deputy Registrar,Alhaji M. A. Lawal to come and apply for a scholarship which he had discussed about with the Vice- chancellor of the University, Prof. Ibraheem Gbajabiamila who was so highly impressed by her first class grade performance that he assured her that she would get the scholarship albeit with a caveat that she must maintain her CGPA sthroughout her studies. And just a few weeks later, Tiamiyu got another call from the university that her scholarship had been granted and that she should come for an acknowledgement of same.

    Thus, the elated scholar who confessed that she had never met Judge Ajibola personally described the former judge of the International Court of Justice as a generous man whose generosity continues to amaze her. She saluted Judge Ajibola’s industry and selfless investment, a part of which she benefitted from.

     

    Honouris Causa

    The University’s PRO also disclosed that the university will also be honouring the Deputy President,South-west,Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA),Alhaji Sakariyau Babalola, with Doctor of Science honouris causa Business Administration for his philanthropic contributions to his country’s higher institutions from time to time. As the day of CUAB’s 2018 convocation is fast drawing near, the world is waiting to usher another glorious scholar of civility into the hobbit of galaxy. God bless the Crescent.

    God bless its proprietor.