As Aquinas College, Akure, celebrated 75 years of academic excellence and character formation, the institution’s old students’ association took time to honour 35 distinguished alumni whose contributions have left lasting impacts on humanity, the college and the alumni community.
The recognition formed one of the highlights of the grand finale of activities marking the school’s diamond jubilee celebration, bringing together generations of Aquinas alumni to celebrate the institution’s enduring legacy.
Among those honoured were former Vice President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Dr Oyedokun Abiodun; Worldwide President of the Aquinas College Akure Old Students’ Association (ACAOSA), Sola Adewunmi; Chairman of the 75th Anniversary Central Planning Committee, Prof. Segun Ojo; Co-Chairman of the committee, Col. Wilson Alade (retd); and Felix Fadeni.
Other award recipients included Major Gen. Adeyemi Adetayo (retd), David Fapohunda, Oluwalade Temiloluwa, Damilola Atolusi, Dr Olaide Afelumo, Francis Oladunmoye, Charles Osuntuyi, Dr Akinwunmi Odumankinde and football coach, Adeoye Gbangba.
Speaking after receiving his award, Abiodun described the recognition as a great honour and called for stronger collaboration between the alumni association and the college’s management to further reposition the institution for future success.
“It is a distinct honour to receive this recognition from our esteemed association. I am committed to continuing my support. I believe the path to further development lies in a more intentional synergy between our vast alumni network and the current administration.
“By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we can modernise the school’s infrastructure and elevate its academic offerings to meet the demands of the 21st century,” he said.
He also urged fellow alumni to remain committed to investing in the next generation of Aquinas students.
“I believe that investing in the next generation of Aquinas boys is the most meaningful way we can give back to the institution that shaped us into who we are today,” he added.
The week-long anniversary celebration featured the inauguration of legacy projects, essay writing and history quiz competitions, an inter-school debate, career talks, mentorship sessions, alumni engagement programmes and a novelty football match, reflecting the college’s rich heritage and continued commitment to nurturing future leaders.
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