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 mark the 25th anniversary of their graduation.

The Silver Jubilee Reunion was held at Moonstone Hall, Whitestone Event Center, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State.

The event brought members of the GCK Class of 2001 together to celebrate their friendship, shared memories, individual achievements and the values instilled in them during their years at the college.

Speaking as the Guest Speaker, Emetu described the reunion as more than a gathering of old classmates, saying it was both a homecoming and a tribute to an institution that played a major role in shaping their lives.

Reflecting on his time as a student, the Deputy Governor said returning to the school environment after 25 years filled him with gratitude, joy and nostalgia.

He noted that despite the different paths and levels of success attained by members of the class, they all remained proud products of Government College Ketu-Epe.

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

According to him, those experiences helped 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 college, Otunba Aybade Obajimi, whom he described as a visionary leader who understood that education extended beyond examinations and academic grades.

He said the former principal placed emphasis on character, discipline and nurturing individuals to become the best versions of themselves.

Emetu noted that Obajimi created an environment that encouraged excellence, empowered teachers to inspire students and gave young people opportunities to realise their potential.

He 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,” Emetu said.

He particularly expressed gratitude to Mr Oshinaike for his kindness, fatherly guidance and unwavering belief in the students.

According to Emetu, many of the values that continue to shape the lives of members of the Class of 2001 were instilled by teachers who genuinely invested in their students.

The Deputy Governor used the occasion to highlight the critical 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 individuals, the teachers who prepared them for those positions should never be forgotten.

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

Emetu further encouraged members of the alumni to give back to their alma mater, saying meaningful contributions towards its development would be one of the best ways to demonstrate appreciation.

He explained that honouring an institution goes beyond attending reunions and should include supporting infrastructure, providing scholarships, mentoring younger students and serving as proud ambassadors of the school.

The Deputy Governor 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 journey over the past 25 years.

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

Shittu noted that although members of the class had pursued different careers and paths over the years, the bond formed during their school days 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 brotherhood among members of the Class of 2001.

Participants from different professional backgrounds reflected on how their shared experiences at Government College Ketu-Epe transformed them from ordinary classmates into lifelong friends.