Vice President (Western Region) of the African Association of Quantity Surveyors, Olayemi Sonubi, has called on alumni of the Federal Government College (FGC) Odogbolu to prioritize infrastructure development, academic scholarships, health programs, and staff welfare, stressing that such initiatives are essential to ensure future generations benefit from the same high-quality education that shaped their own success.
Speaking at the 20th anniversary reunion of the 2005 set, themed “Rekindle Bonds, Reviving Legacies,” Sonubi urged alumni to combine celebration with purposeful action. “Our celebrations should not just be about nostalgia; they must be paired with meaningful contributions that preserve the school’s legacy and create lasting impact for current and future students,” he said.
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Sonubi highlighted the school’s enduring academic standards and emphasized the responsibility of alumni to give back through infrastructure projects, scholarships, health initiatives, and staff support. He also encouraged the establishment of welfare funds and group insurance schemes for alumni, adding, “Supporting each other ensures that we can collectively strengthen our alma mater while also securing our own well-being.”
In his welcome address, Usman Adedeji, President of the 2005 alumni association, reflected on two decades of shared experiences within the school’s classrooms and hostels, emphasizing that the reunion was more than a nostalgic gathering. “This event provides a unique opportunity to rekindle relationships, renew our collective spirit, and revive the legacies we are building as an alumni set,” he said. Adedeji also called on alumni to engage actively through mentorship, collaboration, and service to both the school and society.
Also addressing the gathering, Wale Soneye, Global Vice President of the FGC Odogbolu Old Students Association, stressed the importance of active participation in the national alumni body, FEBOSA. He urged unity among alumni to protect the set’s identity and leverage professional achievements in quantity surveying, architecture, and other fields for the benefit of the school. Soneye announced upcoming projects including a new gatehouse design competition, classroom furniture donations, and collaborations with medical outreach programs and teacher support initiatives.
Former Principal Olayinka Babalola commended the 2005 set for their active involvement in the school’s development. “I am proud of the 2005 set for their consistent engagement and the tangible initiatives they have undertaken, including classroom locker donations. Your efforts demonstrate commitment to the growth and wellbeing of our students,” she said.
Babalola also emphasized the value of working within the main alumni body, noting, “Working within the main alumni body ensures recognition for your projects and amplifies their impact. You cannot operate in isolation if you want to make a lasting difference.”
She reassured alumni that despite past safety concerns, students were able to thrive, saying, “Challenges have always existed, but they never impeded the success of our students.” She further praised the alumni for maintaining discipline and fostering a positive school culture, stating, “Your dedication not only supports the school’s growth but also reinforces the values and standards that make FGC Odogbolu exceptional.”
Prior to the anniversary celebration, the 2005 set launched the Classroom Desk Project, aimed at improving school infrastructure while instilling values of gratitude, responsibility, and purposeful giving. Adedeji noted that initiatives like this demonstrate the alumni’s commitment to making a lasting impact beyond personal achievements.
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The reunion also served as a platform for alumni to explore new partnerships, share professional experiences, and plan future contributions. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Executive Committee and planning team, Adedeji thanked members for their time, support, and generosity, urging attendees to continue building a legacy of unity, purpose, and excellence for the school.
The 20th anniversary reunion, attended by alumni, teachers, and invited dignitaries, was described as a memorable occasion that strengthened old bonds, inspired new initiatives, and reaffirmed the 2005 set’s commitment to sustaining the proud legacy of FGC Odogbolu.
