IGSOSANA 18th Annual Convention in Austin: A glorious celebration of legacy, service, By Gbolahan Gbadamosi

Since its foundation in 1913 as a Christian school in the time-honoured tradition of the Anglican Church, Ibadan Grammar School has been a beacon of learning. It was established by Bishop A B Akinyele, who also served as its first principal. A succession of remarkable leaders has guided the school, none more so than Archdeacon Emmanuel Alayande, who, in 1951, had the foresight to relocate the institution to its present, sprawling campus.

To attempt to name the countless illustrious alumni would be a disservice, for it would surely leave out far too many who have distinguished themselves. It is perhaps more fitting to imagine that every single old student is illustrious in their own right, a testament to the school’s enduring legacy. Among the many who have departed, we remember with reverence such luminaries as Ambassador Edward Olusola Sanu, Professor Akin Mabogunje, and Dr Olusegun Agagu. Among the ongoing trailblazers who continue to shape the world, we celebrate the likes of Mr. Goodie Ibru (Chairman of the IGSOSA Board of Trustees), Dr Mike Adenuga (Globacom), and Mr Yinka Sani (CEO, Stanbic IBTC), whose lives and achievements stand as a testament to the school’s profound impact across generations.

Austin, Texas – In the heart of Texas, where the vibrant spirit of Austin beats, the city recently played host to a most distinguished gathering. From the 28th to the 31st of August, a tapestry of shared history and profound camaraderie was woven as the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students’ Association of North America (IGSOSANA) convened for its 18th Annual Convention. IGSOSANA is the North America branch of the global Ibadan Grammar School Old Students’ Association (IGSOSA).This four-day jubilee was a luminous reunion of souls, bringing together old friends, cherished companions, and honoured guests in a resplendent celebration. It was a time filled with laughter and heartfelt stories, a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the hallowed halls of their beloved alma mater. Amidst the joyous festivities, a deep sense of purpose was rekindled, as the attendees reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the legacy that shaped countless generations.

The event was elevated by the presence of a constellation of distinguished guests, each a star in their own right. Among the luminous gathering was the Honourable Justice Helen Morenikeji Ogunwumiju, a venerable Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, and an old student. She was joined by Queen Mother Latonya Eppinger, a visionary and humanitarian whose grace and leadership shine brightly within the Umuokanne Kingdom, and Anita Gupta, a prominent Northern Virginia-based entrepreneur and the visionary founder of KiwiTech. Their attendance not only added a layer of grandeur to the occasion but also underscored the profound global influence and esteemed reputation of Ibadan Grammar School and its alumni.

The distinguished assembly also included other illustrious dignitaries from the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students’ Association (IGSOSA), each a testament to the school’s legacy. The gathering was honoured by the presence of Hon Justice Cecelia Olatoregun, a retired Judge of the Federal High Court of Nigeria; Bamofin Ade Adedeji, SAN, the esteemed Secretary of the IGSOSA Board of Trustees, and National Chairman of the Tax Appeal Tribunal in Nigeria, with his lovely wife, Mrs Abiola Adedeji; Emeritus Professor Charles Aworh from the Department of Food Technology, University of Ibadan, and his wife, Mrs Tola Aworh; Mrs Olubunmi Agbaje Salako, the Chairperson of the IGSOSA Ireland Chapter; Mrs Seyi Ogunjuyigbe, the Chairperson of the IGSOSA Lagos Branch; Erelu Siju Alabi of the Orile-Ilawo kingdom; and Mrs Monilola Udoh, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary. Their collective presence was a powerful testament to the deep-rooted unity and enduring pride that bind the “Mountaineers” across the globe.

In a moment that will forever be etched in the annals of history, a profound honour was bestowed upon Queen Mother Latonya Eppinger. She was granted the very first Honorary Membership of the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students’ Association of North America (IGSOSANA). This distinction marked her as a true member of the Mountaineer family. In a moving tribute, the President of IGSOSANA, Mrs Olawunmi Olafunmiloye, welcomed her with words that captured the essence of her remarkable spirit. “You represent the best of what humanity can achieve when education, compassion, and determination converge,” she declared. “Your Honorary Membership is not just our gift to you—it is your gift to us, elevating our association through your presence and inspiring us all to reach higher in our own service to others.”

Deeply moved by this honour, Queen Mother Eppinger pledged her unwavering support for Project Nehemiah, a noble endeavour aimed at the rebuilding of Ibadan Grammar School. Her commitment aligns perfectly with IGSOSANA’s bold vision to restore the institution to its former glory, transforming it once more into a beacon of educational excellence in Nigeria.

The convention reached a pivotal moment with the swearing-in of Mrs Olawunmi Olafunmiloye for her second term as the esteemed President of IGSOSANA. Her re-installation was marked by an inspiring and powerful keynote address, aptly themed “Becoming More.” In her speech, she beautifully articulated the association’s journey, celebrating its remarkable resilience and achievements. “We have become more resilient in the face of challenges,” she declared, her words resonating with the audience, “more creative in our solutions, more generous in our spirit, and more unified in our mission.” She concluded by stating, “Most importantly, we have become more effective advocates for excellence in education and more powerful agents of positive change.”

Looking toward the future, she extended a heartfelt call to all Mountaineers, urging them to continue this noble journey. “Let us continue this journey of becoming more—more impactful, more generous, more united, and more committed to ensuring that Ibadan Grammar School remains a centre of excellence for generations to come,” she implored. Her address ended on a note of soaring optimism, “Together, we have not only built legacies—we have become more than we ever imagined possible, and the best is yet to come.”

The Gala Night shone with brilliance as distinguished alumni were honoured for their remarkable achievements and service:

• HRM Oba Olusegun Alexander MacGregor – Bishop Alexander Babatunde Akinyele Award for Outstanding Pioneer Leadership in Biopharmacy.
•  Emeritus CJ Ayo Phillips – Archdeacon Emmanuel Alayande Award for Exemplary Public Service.
•  Bamofin Aderibigbe Adedeji – Chief Joseph Ayo Labiyi Award for Distinguished Professional Accomplishments.
• Dr Stephen Olufemi Adeyemi – Chief Bola Ige Award for Distinguished Service to Ibadan Grammar School.
•  Mrs Oluseyi Adejuyigbe – Chief Bola Ige Award for Distinguished Service to Ibadan Grammar School.
•  Mr Olusanya Oloyede Aribatise – Chief Bola Ige Award for Distinguished Service to Ibadan Grammar School.
•  Mr Abiodun Fanimokun – IGSOSANA Award for Distinguished Leadership.

These distinguished honourees embody the very soul of excellence, service, and leadership, standing as living testaments to the timeless truth: that once a Mountaineer, one is forever a champion.

The convention also became a stage for a heartfelt tribute to the tireless men and women whose selfless dedication forms the very foundation of IGSOSANA’s profound impact. The prestigious 2025 Member of the Year award was bestowed upon Mr Olusoji Adeyemi, the association’s Vice President, a testament to his unwavering commitment. Further accolades were presented to five other unsung heroes, whose behind-the-scenes passion and vision have been instrumental in turning aspirations into a tangible reality. These honourees included Chief (Mrs) Adeyanju Lawal-Nurudeen (Welfare Director), Chief (Mrs) Temitayo Thomas (Liberal Arts Director), Dr Akindeji Ojetola (STEM Director), Mrs Aderonke Adeseye (Region 1 Leader), Mr Olufemi Ifaturoti (Legal Adviser), and Prof Femi Taiwo (Liberal Arts Committee). They are the beating heart of IGSOSANA, and their dedication secures the future of the association.

The energetic and contagious passion of Mrs Olawunmi Olafunmiloye has resulted in a new era dawning with the successful launch of YENDOW (Youth Education and Empowerment Endowment)—a foundation conceived to empower the next generation. The launch was met with an outpouring of enthusiasm, as donations and pledges flowed from old students eager to create a lasting and meaningful impact.

From the vibrant camaraderie of the BBQ Party at the Olubadan House and the scenic Austin City Tour to the unforgettable elegance of Obu Night, the grand Gala Night, and the uplifting spirit of the Thanksgiving service, the 18th Annual Convention transcended a mere event. It was a symphony of unity, a celebration of legacy, and a powerful affirmation of the indomitable Mountaineer spirit.

The profound achievements of IGSOSANA are built upon the bedrock of extraordinary dedication, and for this, our deepest gratitude. On record is the esteemed Advisory Council, each member a pillar of support and wisdom. Recognising the current national leadership of our great association, including President General, Dayo Onakoya, and paying homage to all past national presidents and former IGSOSANA presidents who have guided our journey. A special note of thanks goes to the Chair of the Convention Organising Committee (COC), Mrs Desola Ayobiojo, and her entire team. While also acknowledging the unwavering efforts of all regional coordinators, the immense generosity of all donors, and every single Mountaineer who answered the call to service. It is through your collective passion and commitment that our shared vision has blossomed into a magnificent reality – and Becoming More.

As the curtain descended on this memorable gathering in Austin, one truth resonated with unwavering clarity: IGSOSANA is not merely building legacies—it is sculpting the very future of education in Nigeria.

· Gbolahan Gbadamosi, a professor of organisational behaviour and human resource management at Bournemouth University, UK, is a distinguished alumnus.