……Honour Teachers, holds fundraising

The Christ Apostolic Grammar School Old Students Association (CAGSOSA), 1976-1981 Set, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, celebrated its 45th Anniversary Reunion with the commissioning of landmark projects, recognition of veteran teachers and a fundraising exercise aimed at advancing the development of Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.

The grand finale, held at the Apollo Multi-Purpose Hall, attracted an impressive gathering of government officials, traditional rulers, education stakeholders, distinguished alumni and friends of the institution who assembled to celebrate four and a half decades of enduring friendship while reaffirming their commitment to the continued growth of their alma mater.

Among the dignitaries present were the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi ARIGBABU, who represented the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo ABIODUN, CON; Executive Chairman of Ikenne Local Government, Hon. Jamiu Mohammed ASIMI; former Chairman, Remo Central LCDA, Hon. Oluseyi ODUMUYIWA; Senior Consultant to the Governor on Agriculture, Prince Wale Bama OYEKOYA; National President of CAGSOSA, Hon. Armstrong Tope AKINTUNDE; Aare Gbogbogbo of Remoland, Aare Kola OYEFESO; the Aro of Iperu, High Chief Jide SOSAN; the Asoju Oba of Iperu, Otunba Kole OLATUNJI; Barr. Olusola IDOWU, SAN, as well as traditional rulers including the Onimeji of Imeji, Oba Babatunde Kayode OLAYEBO OREMULE-SODA; the Alagbehinsa of Agbehinsa, Oba Isiaka Adekanmi OGUNNAIKE; and the Aregun of Iregun, Oba Adedoyin Abraham OGUNFOWORA. Members of the Blessed Bomode Oku Society led by the Lady President, Mrs. Fausat ADESUYI; and Giwa Egbe, Evang. Stephen ADEKALU, also graced the occasion.

Welcoming guests, Chairman of the 45th Reunion Planning Committee, Mr. Dayo James AKERELE, described the reunion as a celebration of enduring friendship, shared values and the lasting bonds established during the members' formative years at Christ Apostolic Grammar School. He noted that the reunion also coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Set's admission into the school and reflected members' unwavering commitment to giving back through meaningful developmental projects.

Mr. AKERELE disclosed that the reunion culminated in the commissioning of two multimillion naira legacy projects, namely the renovation of a block of six classrooms and the rehabilitation of modern sanitary facilities, to improve the teaching and learning environment and sustain the school's tradition of excellence. He expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government, the school management, members of the 1976-1981 Set, donors, friends of the association and other stakeholders whose support ensured the successful execution of both the projects and the reunion programme.

In her address, the first Female Accountant General of the Federation and President of the CAGSOSA 1976-1981 Set, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat MADEIN, PhD, FCA, FCCA, FCNA, FIASP, FPIA, described the reunion as a moment of thanksgiving, reflection and renewed commitment to the institution that shaped members' lives. She thanked God for preserving members over the past 45 years and paid glowing tribute to former teachers, mentors and departed colleagues whose sacrifices laid the foundation for their success.

According to her, the reunion was organised not only to celebrate the passage of time but also to demonstrate gratitude through impactful interventions that would benefit future generations of students. She urged members to sustain the spirit of unity, selfless service and collective responsibility by supporting scholarships, mentoring younger students and investing in projects that would strengthen the development of the school.

Dr. MADEIN also appreciated sponsors, supporters and members of the planning committee for their dedication and generosity, stressing that the true measure of a vibrant alumni association lies in its commitment to giving back. She called on members of the Class of 1981 and the wider CAGSOSA family to transform the inspiration of the reunion into purposeful action that would preserve the school's legacy of excellence, integrity and service.

Speaking with journalists, Dr. MADEIN declared that "education is never a scam and will never be one," urging students to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their academic pursuits. She also appealed to old students of Christ Apostolic Grammar School to continue supporting their alma mater through infrastructural development, noting that the institution still requires significant intervention from its alumni.

A historical account of Christ Apostolic Grammar School was presented by Mr. Akintola FATAI, who highlighted the school's rich heritage and its remarkable contributions to producing distinguished professionals in various fields.

One of the major highlights of the celebration was the commissioning of the renovated block of six-classrooms and modern toilet facilities executed by the 1976-1981 Set as part of efforts to improve the teaching and learning environment while complementing government's investment in education.

The event also featured the recognition of outstanding former teachers whose dedication positively shaped generations of students. Awards of honour were presented to The Very Reverend Dr. Adesimi BANWO; Mr. Charles FATOBERU, represented by his daughter, Mrs. Dayo FOLORUNSHO; Mr. Abayomi OYESANWEN; and Pa Amos OKUBANJO, represented by Mr. Soji OYENUSI.

Guests also witnessed the unveiling of the 45-Year Reunion Compendium documenting the history, achievements and memorable experiences of members of the 1976-1981 Set. The presentation was followed by the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake, symbolising 45 years of friendship, unity and service.

During the fundraising session, members, invited guests and other stakeholders made generous donations towards future infrastructural development projects in the school.

Commending the initiative, Prof. ARIGBABU applauded members of the 1976-1981 Set for remembering their roots through impactful projects. He encouraged other graduating sets to emulate the gesture, noting that alumni support remains critical to the sustainable development of public schools across Ogun State.

Also speaking, National President of CAGSOSA, Mr. Armstrong Tope AKINTUNDE, praised the 1976-1981 Set for sustaining unity and fellowship over the years.

 He urged alumni across various graduating sets to continue organising reunion programmes that strengthen relationships while promoting meaningful contributions to the development of the school.

Vice President of the CAGSOSA 1976-1981 Set, Ms. Olayinka OKUYEMI, described the reunion as an opportunity to reconnect with old classmates and renew members' collective commitment to the progress of their alma mater through continuous engagement and service.

In her remarks, the Iyaloja General of Ikenne Local Government, Chief (Mrs.) Adesola ADEBUTU, underscored the importance of education in nation-building. She encouraged students to remain committed to learning while calling on parents, alumni and community leaders to continue supporting educational development.

The colourful celebration also featured a wine and dine session, entertainment and moments of nostalgia as members relived cherished memories of their school days and celebrated the enduring bond that has united the 1976-1981 Set for 45 years.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Mrs. Mary BRAIMO expressed appreciation to members of the 76-81 Set, government officials, traditional rulers, donors, former teachers, invited guests and all supporters whose contributions ensured the success of the reunion. She called for sustained unity among old students and appealed for continued support towards future developmental initiatives in Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo.

*Temitope OYEKAN* 

Consultant on Media to Dr. MADEIN

4th August, 2026