The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, on Saturday, August 29, reunited with his former classmates from Government College Ketu-Epe (GCK), Class of 2001, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their graduation.

The Silver Jubilee Reunion, held at Moonstone Hall, Whitestone Event Center, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State, brought together members of the Class of 2001 to celebrate their friendship, shared memories, personal achievements and the values they acquired during their years at the college.

Speaking as the Guest Speaker at the event, Emetu described the reunion as a homecoming and a tribute to the institution that played a significant role in shaping their lives.

Reflecting on his days as a student, the Deputy Governor said returning after 25 years filled him with gratitude, joy and nostalgia. He noted that regardless of the different paths members of the class had taken or the successes they had recorded, they remained proud products of GCK.

Emetu recalled the experiences of boarding school life, including morning bells, study periods, inspections, hostel chores and the strong bonds formed among students.

According to him, those experiences helped to build resilience, discipline, adaptability and a strong sense of community among the students.

The Deputy Governor also paid tribute to the former Principal of the school, Otunba Aybade Obajimi, whom he described as a visionary leader who understood that education extended beyond examinations and academic grades to character development, discipline and the nurturing of individuals.

He said the former principal created an environment that encouraged excellence, empowered teachers to inspire students and gave learners opportunities to realise their full potential.

Emetu also expressed appreciation to the teachers, house masters and house mistresses, describing them as parental figures who played important roles in the growth and development of the students while they were away from home.

“You recognised our potential long before we even saw it ourselves. You stepped in to guide us when we needed correction. You lifted us up during our moments of self-doubt. You pushed us to strive for better versions of ourselves,” he said.

He specially thanked Mr Oshinaike for his kindness, fatherly guidance and unwavering belief in the students, noting that many of the values that continue to shape their lives were instilled by teachers who invested deeply in their students.

Emetu used the occasion to highlight the crucial role teachers play in raising future leaders and shaping society.

He said that while society often celebrates governors, ministers, judges, business leaders and other prominent figures, the contributions of teachers who prepared them for such responsibilities should never be overlooked.

“Without teachers, there can be no leaders, no governors, no deputy governors, and no presidents,” he emphasised.

The Deputy Governor encouraged the alumni to give back to the institution that contributed to their development, saying meaningful contributions would be one of the best ways to demonstrate their appreciation.

He noted that honouring their alma mater should go beyond attending reunions and should include supporting infrastructure, establishing scholarships, mentoring younger students and serving as proud ambassadors of the institution.

Emetu also commended the Planning Committee for successfully organising the Silver Jubilee Reunion, noting that the event required commitment, sacrifice, vision, patience and teamwork.

He gave special recognition to the Alumni President, Oluwadamilare Shittu, for his leadership and dedication in coordinating the reunion, describing the efforts of Shittu and his team as a testament to service and commitment.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Alumni President, Damilare Shittu, described the Silver Jubilee as a special opportunity for members of the GCK Class of 2001 to reunite and celebrate their collective journey.

He said the gathering provided an opportunity to reconnect, reflect on their shared experiences and consider the legacy they could continue to build together.

According to him, although members of the class had pursued different careers and taken different paths over the past 25 years, the bond they formed during their school days had remained strong.

“The world has changed, but GCK stays the same — the connections we made in our early years still unite us, even as we chase our own dreams and embark on unique journeys,” he said.

The 25th anniversary reunion was marked by nostalgia, laughter and celebrations of the enduring bond among members of the Class of 2001.

Participants from different professional backgrounds reflected on how their shared experiences at the college transformed them from classmates into lifelong friends.