Four decades after leaving the four walls of Ilamoye Grammar School, the Pioneer 85 Set has come together not only to celebrate a milestone but to give back meaningfully to the community that shaped their early years.
As these former students reflect on their journey—from teenagers in school uniforms to adults contributing to society—they recognise the importance of extending the values of service, compassion, and unity that their alma mater instilled in them.
Unveiling the rich week-long programme of activities aimed at celebrating excellence, giving back to the community, and honouring the legacy of those who laid the foundation for their education, the Chairman of the organising committee and a proud alumnus of the school, Rear Admiral Joseph Daniel Akpan, noted that the programme was designed to reflect gratitude, service, and unity.
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“We are over 30 members here today, and many more will join as the week progresses,” Akpan said. “This celebration is not just a reunion — it is our commitment to give back and uphold the values that shaped us.” He highlighted that the celebration kicked off with a Jumu’ah prayer and health outreach, followed by Saturday’s medical rhapsody and community outreach.
“Tomorrow, the Christian community among us will gather to thank God,” he said, outlining activities planned for Sunday. He added that Monday has been set aside for a press conference, while Tuesday will mark a major highlight — the alumni’s return to the school.
“I have not been there for over 40 years, so I'm looking forward to going there on Tuesday,” he said. “We’ll hold a school party for the students, not just to celebrate with them but to encourage them. Many of us have done well in society. We want them to see examples and aim for the sky.”
Rear Admiral Akpan further announced that Wednesday will be dedicated to visiting the family of the late elder statesman, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, whose free-education policy in 1979/1980 paved the way for many students, including members of the association. He described the visit as significant, a way to honour a legacy that continues to shape lives.
On Friday, alumni — including members arriving from the diaspora — will gather for an exclusive “meet and greet” at Docker’s Bar, Victoria Island. The week will then climax on Saturday with a grand Gala and Public Award Night, where former teachers and families of late educators will be honoured. Special development projects for the school will also be launched during the event.
In his remark, the President of the Ilamoye Grammar School Old Students Association, 1985 pioneer set, Mr. Aileru Abiodun Ganiyu, expressed gratitude and pride as the group marks 40 years after graduation. He explained that the pioneer set, who entered the school in 1979/1980, lined up a week-long programme to commemorate the milestone, beginning with a Jumu’ah prayer held on Friday. According to him, the celebration is not only a reunion but an opportunity to reflect on the school’s impact on their lives.
Speaking during the medical outreach organised as part of the anniversary activities, Mr. Ganiyu noted that the initiative was conceived as a way of giving back to the community that nurtured them.
He emphasised that Ilamoye Grammar School, located near the Okota School Village, played a crucial role in shaping their foundations, making it important for the association to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of residents. He added that at a time when many Nigerians struggle to access and afford healthcare, the outreach serves as a timely intervention.
The president revealed that although the team initially planned to attend to about 300 people, the turnout had exceeded expectations, with over 400 community members already benefiting from the free medical laboratory services. He described the development as a major encouragement for the association and a testament to the growing need for such support. He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to continuing programmes that uplift the community and honour the legacy of their alma mater.
The Acting Commander of the Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital Ojo (NNRH Ojo), Navy Captain Aliyu Ope Oyeneyin, explained the Navy’s support for the medical outreach organised by the Ilamoye Grammar School Old Students Association.
He noted that the initiative was facilitated through a long-standing professional relationship with one of the association’s senior members, whom he had served under during his time at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. According to him, the request for support was one they felt compelled to honour, leading to the deployment of officers and ratings to enhance the delivery of healthcare services at the event.
Captain Oyeneyin highlighted that the Navy personnel on ground were providing a full range of medical services, including medications, anti-hypertensive and anti-malaria drugs, dental care, laboratory tests, and public health interventions.
He emphasised that preventive care is especially vital for pregnant women and children, adding that treated mosquito nets were also distributed. While stressing that the outreach was fully sponsored by the association, he clarified that the Navy’s role was to supply manpower, professional support, and ensure an effective and seamless medical exercise for the benefiting community.
With medical facilities ranging from hospitals to sick bays in various locations where the Navy is present, Captain Oyeneyin said the service remains committed to extending quality healthcare to host communities across the country as part of its enduring social responsibility mandate.
The week-long festivities reflect the alumni's dedication to community, education, and the enduring spirit of Ilamoshe Grammar School.
Over the years, the Okota–Isolo community has experienced rapid growth, yet access to basic healthcare remains a significant challenge for many residents. Common ailments such as malaria, typhoid, hypertension, eye problems, urinary tract infections, and elevated blood sugar levels continue to affect families, often going untreated due to financial constraints or lack of awareness. Early detection can prevent complications, but many people do not undergo routine medical checks.
Through this initiative, the Pioneer 85 Set reinforces a powerful message: that old students’ associations are not just social groups, but vital agents of community development. Their 40-year milestone is therefore not only a celebration of time, but a celebration of impact.
