Epe Grammar School, the pride of Epe’s educational landscape, came alive over the weekend as the 1971/1975 Set marked its Golden Jubilee with a blend of nostalgia, philanthropy and renewed commitment to future generations. The celebration reached its peak with the commissioning of a newly completed school hall extension and the presentation of educational resources donated by the jubilant set.
His Excellency, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Nigeria’s former High Commissioner to Ghana, performed the commissioning on behalf of the set, describing the moment as a privilege of deep emotional weight.
Addressing the crowd, he said it was “a profound honour to celebrate a milestone that is as historic as it is heartwarming.”
The Senator paid glowing tribute to the 71/75 class, reminding attendees that “50 years ago, a remarkable set of young men and women walked out of this great institution with hope, discipline and values that would guide them through life.” He praised their resilience and accomplishments, calling them “proud ambassadors” and “custodians of a legacy that continues to shine.”
Turning to the students, Obanikoro delivered a stirring charge: “Look around you, what you see today is what you can become tomorrow.” He urged them to be disciplined, to embrace technology and to recognize that “mere working on your phone and laptops will have more information than those in the libraries.”
The event also featured an emotionally rich reflection by Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Lagos GAC member and former Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, who sponsored the construction of the hall extension. He stressed the duty of old students to uplift the school, insisting that “it must be the cynosure of all eyes.” In a surprise revelation, he described his journey as Lagos’ former number three citizen as nothing short of miraculous, crediting his foundation to lessons from Epe Grammar School.
He reminded students to maximize the opportunities now available, contrasting their experience with his era when “communicating with my mother from abroad took 3 months.”
Earlier, President of the 71/75 Set and retired permanent secretary, Alhaji Lekan Akodu, emphasized the importance of giving back. The set donated a generator for the ICT lab, a mower, public address system and a personal ₦100,000 scholarship for outstanding students. He applauded members for their “public-spirited gesture.”
National EGOSA President, Alhaja Olushola Alade-Raji, praised the set for its targeted interventions, noting that the hall extension would “accommodate more students.” She urged students to protect school property, warning that anyone who vandalizes equipment “will be made to replace them.” In response during the presentation of the donated items, the duo of Senior and Junior School Principals, Mr. Ajayi and Mr. Alagbawi promised to ensure that the items are adequately utilized and protected.
The anniversary lecture, delivered by Dr. Elemide on behalf of Lagos State College of Health Technology Provost, Prof. Akewusola, provided students with guidance on career building in a fast-changing world. He highlighted creativity, direction and the power of tech-driven opportunities, noting that young people can now earn legitimately even before completing university.
As the celebrations drew to a close, one message rang clear: the 71/75 Set has not only come to mark 50 years but to rekindle a bond with their alma mater, ensuring the flame burns even brighter for the next generation.
