Wale Jagun
-Alumni reflect journey from boys to Conquerors in a memorable evening
25 years after their exit from the prestigious St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka, as boys, the Class of 1998, also known as SFCOBA98SET, returned to their old school as men to celebrate anniversary of their exploits in the world.
In a grand celebration of camaraderie and achievement, SFCOBA98SET marked their 25th Anniversary Reunion with a novelty match and dazzling gala event at their beloved alma mater. The occasion was graced by distinguished alumni, prominent figures, and revered educators, making it an evening to remember.
The evening’s highlight was the unveiling of a landmark project: luminous signage for the school, serving as a token of appreciation and a reminder of their indebtedness to St. Finbarr’s College – a bastion of academic excellence.
Mr. Desmond Okoro, Chairman of the 25th Anniversary Reunion Committee, set the tone for the evening by invoking a moment of silence to honour departed comrades, teachers, and administrators who played pivotal roles in shaping their lives.
He expressed gratitude for the gift of life and the unwavering support from the school’s management, the Alumni president, and the distinguished conquerors present.
Mr. Okoro commended the immediate past president of SFCOBA, Mr. Adeyinka Bashorun, and the current President, Mr. Patrick Doyle, for their contributions to the association’s global recognition. He highlighted the influence of their alma mater in moulding them into leaders and expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the event’s success.
Chairman of the SFCOBA ’98 Set, Mr. Eshiomomoh Ifoga, in his speech titled, ‘Beyond The Silver Lining, From Boys To Conquerors’, reflected on their transformation from schoolboys to conquerors.
He expressed immense pride in the diverse achievements of their fellow alumni, noting that captains of industries, accomplished medical doctors, engineers, financial professionals, IT experts, entertainers, clergymen, architects, and event planners, are in their ranks.
Mr. Ifoga emphasized the resolve to achieve even greater success, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with accomplished alumni in Nigeria and beyond.
He also paid tribute to their dedicated teachers, acknowledging the pivotal role they played in their development as responsible global citizens. Special recognition was given to Principal Emeritus Pa Alloysoius Kpotie, for his contributions to their growth and success.
A former Commissioner for Environment and Physical Planning, Arch. Kayode Anibaba, reminisced his time as a student and Mathematics teacher, and also commended the Set for their contributions towards the development of the school.
The School Administrator, Mr. Victor Biyibi, commended the set as one of the prominent old boys sets.
He also commented on the outstanding performance of the current students which now attracts students from the United Kingdom, Australia, America and Vietnam.
The event was concluded with a toast to mark the 25th anniversary, followed by networking, socializing, and dancing, showcasing the enduring bonds and vibrant spirit of the SFCOBA98SET.
Some of their old teachers who graced the occasion were Mr. Yemi Odu and Mr. Toyin Ayeoribe.
As St. Finbarr’s College Akoka’s Class of ’98 celebrated their remarkable journey from schoolboys to conquerors, they left an indelible mark on their alma mater, promising to continue their contributions to society and the legacy of excellence they hold dear.
