…promises inclusive leadership and progressive development
Elder Gbenga Ajayi was elected as the national president of the Fatima College Old Boys Association (FACOBA) on Saturday, November 16, during a keenly contested election held at the school auditorium in Ikire, Osun State.
Ajayi secured 77 votes, defeating his rival Otunba Muyiwa Olaore, who garnered 39 votes, while one vote was declared void.
In the same election, Arch Saheed Adedayo emerged as the national vice president, polling 78 votes against Olaniyan Adeyemi Ezekiel’s 36 votes, with three votes voided.
For the position of Secretary General, Sarafadeen Ajubade triumphed over Isiaka Olagunju with 69 votes to 40, and eight votes voided.
A total of 117 voters were accredited for the election.
Ajayi’s vision and plans
In his acceptance speech, Ajayi pledged to foster an open-door policy, ensuring inclusivity and collaboration among members.
He called on his opponents and all stakeholders to join forces in elevating the association and supporting Fatima College.
Ajayi’s campaign blueprint centered on fostering unity, collaboration, and sustainable development for the school and its alumni network. His leadership vision is built on four key pillars: inclusivity, teamwork, consultation, and accountability.
He emphasised plans to unify members by establishing a comprehensive database of all alumni for direct engagement and a sense of ownership, promising to utilize the diverse professional skills of members for progress and set up platforms for branch and class engagement.
Additionally, Ajayi pledged to constitute governing bodies such as the Council of the Association, National Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and General Assembly, ensuring financial transparency through an open-book policy.
Ajayi also outlined specific goals, including; the development of quality physical infrastructure at Fatima College; accelerating “Give Back to Alma Mater” initiatives; setting up a functional alumni office with IT infrastructure; mentorship and volunteering programs; strengthening relations with the PTA, community, government, and school management; expanding diaspora membership and fostering intra-alumni networking and organizing social events like reunions, sports, and educational programs.
Elder Ajayi assured members that his administration would prioritise transparency and equity, aligning with global best practices to build trust and confidence.
He urged all alumni to unite under his leadership to advance their alma mater.
With a strong focus on teamwork and accountability, Ajayi envisions leading FACOBA into an era of impactful contributions.
“Together, we will achieve greatness for our association and our beloved Fatima College,” he affirmed.
