The Old Boys Association of Ijebu-Ode Grammar School (JOGASOBA) gathered to celebrate the school’s Founders’ Day and its 112 years of existence with great pride and joy. The event, held on January 20, 2025, at the school premises, highlighted the school’s historic achievements and the enduring legacy of its founders.
In his keynote address, the National President of JOGASOBA, Otunba Ayokunle Bolujoko, praised the high standards of education and moral values instilled by the school’s visionary founders. He noted that the school opened its gates to its pioneer students on January 20, 1913, with Rev. S.J. Gansallo and Rev. J.A. Cole serving as the first principal and vice principal, respectively.
Otunba Bolujoko emphasized that Ijebu-Ode Grammar School was the second of its kind in Yorubaland, following the establishment of Abeokuta Grammar School in 1908. The school was founded as a missionary initiative aimed at promoting Western education in the then-southern province of Nigeria. Pastor J.B. Sadare contributed significantly to its establishment by donating his private building at 16 Ideyin Street, Ita-Ntebo Quarter, Ijebu-Ode, for the first classes. As enrollment grew, the school was relocated to the vicarage of St. Saviour’s Church, Ijasi, before moving to its current location on Abeokuta Road.
“For anything to be considered worthy of celebration, it must have unique qualities,” said Otunba Bolujoko. He highlighted that Ijebu-Ode Grammar School’s exceptional foundation and values have been upheld since its inception. Among the first 23 pioneer students were notable names such as Emmanuel Jackson Idowu, the first head prefect, and members of distinguished families like Ajayi, Gansallo, Degun, Sadare, Osifeso, Jadesinmi, Osikesiro, and Kanmi.
Being one of the ten premier schools of its era, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School has a rich history of achievements in academics, sports, and other fields. “The school has produced distinguished individuals who have excelled in various fields, including governance, law, education, public administration, and traditional leadership,” Bolujoko added.
As part of the celebration, JOGASOBA introduced an innovative initiative called the JOGASOBA Family Reunion. Scheduled for January 20 and 25, 2025, the reunion aims to provide a social platform for Old Boys of all generations to connect, celebrate, and strengthen the school’s network. The concept seeks to foster collaboration and support among alumni while promoting the school’s continued growth and development.
In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, JOGASOBA, Engr, Ebenezer Osoba encouraged current students to emulate the greatness established by the school’s founders. He reminded them that JOGASOBA members at home and abroad have consistently excelled in their respective fields and urged the younger generation to follow in their footsteps.
Ijebu-Ode Grammar School stands as a beacon of academic excellence and moral integrity, continuing to inspire generations of students and alumni alike. The celebration of its 112th anniversary underscores its remarkable journey and enduring impact on society.
