The Oriwu College Old Students’ Association of Nigeria (OCOSAN) on Saturday, June 13, 2026, celebrated the 2026 edition of Oriwu College Founders’ Day with the groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed OCOSAN National Secretariat at the premises of Oriwu College, Ikorodu.
The event, held under the theme “Celebrating Our Legacy, Building Our Future, Strengthening Our Association, United For Greater Impact,” attracted distinguished alumni, members of the Board of Trustees (BOT), national executives, and stakeholders who gathered to witness the commencement of a project described as a major milestone in the history of the association.
According to the Planning Committee, the proposed National Secretariat will serve as the official administrative headquarters of OCOSAN, providing a permanent address for receiving letters, consignments, and official correspondence, while also serving as a venue for meetings and other administrative activities of the association.
Performing the official groundbreaking ceremony was Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development.
Speaking on the significance of the project, former Minister of Works and Housing and BOT Member, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, described the National Secretariat as a symbol of unity and continuity for the association.
“This is a defining moment in the history of OCOSAN. The secretariat represents our collective vision and commitment to preserving the legacy of Oriwu College.”
“Beyond providing a permanent administrative base, it will serve as a rallying point for members across generations and strengthen the institutional framework of our association,” he said.
In his remarks, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development and an alumnus of Oriwu Model College, commended the association for embarking on a project that will further strengthen its operations and preserve its rich heritage.
He pledged to construct a block of four modern toilet units for Oriwu College as part of his commitment to supporting the institution. He explained that the project would incorporate a water scheme to guarantee a reliable and adequate water supply for the facility.
Dr. Agbaje described the initiative as a testament to the power of alumni involvement and the collective responsibility of stakeholders to contribute to the growth and development of educational institutions.
He noted that the provision of the modern toilet facility would significantly improve sanitation standards within the school and create a more conducive learning environment for students.
Furthermore, Dr. Agbaje disclosed plans to construct a school canteen following discussions with Senator Ogunlewe on the importance of providing students with a befitting and comfortable eating environment that supports their well-being and academic performance.
Also speaking, BOT Member Alhaja Kudirat Olayinka Lamina described the groundbreaking ceremony as a legacy project that would benefit generations of Oriwu College alumni.
“The importance of this secretariat cannot be overstated. We are laying a solid foundation that will provide continuity, strengthen our association, and preserve our collective heritage for future generations,” she said.
BOT Member Sir David Sunmoni noted that the project would enhance the administrative effectiveness of the association and provide a central point for its operations.
“A successful organization requires a permanent structure through which its activities can be coordinated.”
“This secretariat will become the operational hub of OCOSAN and further promote unity among members worldwide,” he remarked.
Similarly, BOT Member Engr. Shamsideen Charles Longe emphasized the strategic value of the project in the development of the association.
“Every enduring institution is built on strong structures. This secretariat is a strategic investment that will provide OCOSAN with the physical infrastructure required to sustain growth, strengthen governance, and improve service delivery to members,” he stated.
In his remarks, Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe commended the leadership of the association for initiating the project and urged members to support its successful completion.
“The National Secretariat will stand as a monument to the vision, commitment, and unity of Oriwu College old students. It will strengthen communication, improve administration, and serve as a lasting legacy for generations of alumni yet to come,” he said.
National President, Alhaji Lookman Andu; Vice President, TPL. Sherifat Adegbola Onile-Ere; and National General Secretary, Sholanke Lateef (Arizona), described the project as a significant investment in the future of the association.
“This project is not just about today; it is about generations yet unborn. It is a statement that OCOSAN is prepared for the future,” they said.
They expressed appreciation to members and stakeholders whose support made the project possible, noting that the groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for the association.
“The groundbreaking ceremony signifies the beginning of a journey towards establishing a permanent administrative base for our association. We are grateful to all contributors and supporters whose commitment and dedication have made this vision a reality,” they added.
Other members of the National Executive Council present at the event included Tunde Anibaba (Assistant General Secretary), Abiodun Shitta, Mrs. Oladimeji Mutiat (National Treasurer), Abiodun Abari (National Auditor), Miss Abibat Olashile Oshodi (National Social Secretary), Shoneye O. Samson (National Welfare Secretary), Adedayo Ekehinde (National Publicity Secretary), and Barrister Tajudeen Anibaba (National Financial Secretary and Legal Adviser).
The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments from members and stakeholders to support the successful completion of the project, which has been widely described as a significant step towards strengthening the institutional capacity and future of the Oriwu College Old Students’ Association of Nigeria (OCOSAN).
With the commencement of construction, the association has taken a major step toward realizing its vision of building a lasting legacy while advancing its motto, “Per Aspera Ad Astra” – Through Hardships to the Stars.
INN-HOUSE☆ 