By Chibuzo Ihegboro
The old town of Onicha Ugbo came alive, bustling with unusual activities, recently, when the Class of 84 Old Boys Association of St Pius Xth Grammar School, Onicha Ugbo held its 2024 biennial convention which also doubled with the celebration of their 40th graduation anniversary.
The school reunion which took place from September 13th through to 17th, 2024 had all the trappings of a high profile event.
Indeed, it a celebration of an extraordinary milestone- Four decades after their graduation. The air was filled with anticipation, nostalgia, and the unmistakable excitement of rekindled friendships.
Organized by a dedicated committee specially set up for the auspicious event, the anniversary ceremony, themed FOREVER FORTIFIED took place at the school premises.
As they arrived, the camaraderie among them was palpable, a testament to decades of friendship. There were joyous banters, hearty laughter, and enthusiastic embraces. Although, they are in touch with themselves quite often as they hold their monthly meetings in various branches, but this particular occasion was special for obvious reason. It was a gathering of the whole Class of 84 across Nigeria and overseas just to be part of this special reunion. As the minutes ticked into hours, the visibly joyful men slipped into the comfort of shared experiences recalling fond memories.
The event kicked off with a special mass service at the school cathedral presided over by Rev. Pascal Nduka, the Catholic Priest of Issele Uku Dioceses.
Next, there came a series of activities designed to spark nostalgia. It was time for the Annual General Meeting. It was an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and emotions as the members filed into the auditorium to conduct the election that would bring to an end the reign of a leader and the forty years uncommon leadership of the senior prefect of Class of 84 Mr. Austin Omordi. And Barrister Maxwell Chiemeke emerged the new President General of the Class of 84 set. Prior to this, he had steered the affairs of Abuja branch as the President for more than 15 years.
All the newly inaugurated officials pledged a commitment to service.
The high point of the ceremony was the book launch to commemorate 40th graduation anniversary year book of the Class of 84.
The book titled “Class of 84 40 years of friendship and generosity” was written by Sylvester Asoya, a renowned journalist and publisher. It captured an enduring spirit of togetherness, friendship and teenage innocence reminding everyone of the lighter, carefree days of their youth which began from September 9th, 1979.
Hence, this year’s event was themed “Forever Fortified”. Four beautiful decades down the line of history, a family was born, and true friendship was kept for today’s story.
Another milestone which was recorded during the ceremony was the presentation of a newly built 3-Bedroom Bungalow and a library to the School Principal. The gesture was by the generous efforts of Major General Raymond Ochei.
The memorable celebration drew to a close with a gala night. The clinking of glasses echoed in agreement in recall of cherished moments, voices lifted in chorus, as their anthem from their teenage years was sung with a vibrancy that transcended time.
The night culminated in an emotional presentation. Photos from their school days brought back memories: sports days, school plays, and captured moments of friendship. The hall was filled with laughter but also some tears as memories of lost friends were honored with a moment of silence.
The climax of the event was the visitation of the Class of 84 old boys to the Palace of the Obi of Onicha Ugbo, HRM Obi Victor Chukwumaleze 1, of Onicha Ugbo.
As part of their CSR, the Class of 84 Old Boys also made a donation of 800 Exercise books and 30 writing pens to their alma mater.
As the events finally wound up, the air was electric with promises to stay in touch, rekindle friendships, and perhaps, plan another reunion.
With hearts full and spirits lifted, grateful for the unbreakable bonds that had withstood the test of time, four decades had passed, but the essence of Class of 84 Old Boys Association of St Pius Xth Grammar School, Onicha Ugbo remaines alive in their hearts—a cherished reminder of how friendships can light the darkest paths. They are no longer just the Class of ’84; they have truly transformed into a family bound by fond memories.
