For generations of students who passed through the gates of Oriwu College, Ikorodu, the institution has been more than a secondary school. It has been a breeding ground for leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and public servants whose impact stretches across Nigeria and beyond.

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, that enduring legacy took a significant step forward as members of the Oriwu College Old Students’ Association of Nigeria (OCOSAN) gathered at their alma mater to celebrate the 2026 Founders’ Day and officially break ground for the construction of the association’s long-awaited National Secretariat.

The ceremony, 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, national executives, community leaders and stakeholders who converged on the school premises to witness what many described as one of the most important milestones in the history of the association.

For OCOSAN members, the project represents far more than a building.

It symbolizes permanence, unity and a commitment to preserving the heritage of one of Ikorodu Division’s most celebrated educational institutions.

When completed, the proposed National Secretariat will serve as the official administrative headquarters of the association, providing a permanent location for meetings, documentation, official correspondence and strategic planning activities.

More importantly, alumni say it will become a physical symbol of the bond that continues to unite thousands of Oriwu College graduates across generations and continents.

Performing the official groundbreaking ceremony was Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, whose presence added significance to the event.

Addressing attendees, former Minister of Works and Housing and Board of Trustees member, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, described the secretariat project as a defining moment in the evolution of the association.

According to him, every enduring institution requires structures that preserve continuity and strengthen organizational identity.

“This is a landmark moment for OCOSAN,” he said. “The National Secretariat represents our collective vision and our determination to preserve the legacy of Oriwu College while creating a stronger foundation for future generations.”

Senator Ogunlewe noted that beyond serving administrative purposes, the building would become a rallying point for alumni worldwide and reinforce the institutional framework necessary for sustainable growth.

The event also produced another major boost for the school community.

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Agbaje commended the association for initiating a project that reflects the strength and commitment of its alumni network.

As part of his contribution to the development of Oriwu College, he announced plans to construct a block of four modern toilet facilities within the school.

He disclosed that the project would include a dedicated water scheme to ensure a consistent and reliable water supply, thereby improving sanitation and creating a healthier environment for students and staff.

The announcement was warmly received by attendees, many of whom described it as a practical intervention that would directly improve the welfare of students.

Dr. Agbaje further revealed plans to support the construction of a school canteen, explaining that discussions with Senator Ogunlewe highlighted the importance of providing students with a comfortable and hygienic eating environment.

According to him, educational development extends beyond classrooms and examinations, requiring investments in facilities that enhance the overall well-being and learning experience of students.

For members of the Board of Trustees, the groundbreaking ceremony was both symbolic and strategic.

BOT member Alhaja Kudirat Olayinka Lamina described the project as a legacy initiative that would continue to benefit alumni long after the current generation of leaders has left office.

She noted that the secretariat would strengthen organizational continuity while preserving the collective heritage of Oriwu College graduates.

Similarly, Sir David Sunmoni emphasized the importance of a permanent operational base for the association, stating that successful organizations require stable structures through which activities can be coordinated effectively.

According to him, the secretariat will improve administrative efficiency and foster greater unity among members both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.

Adding his voice, Board of Trustees member Engr. Shamsideen Charles Longe described the project as a strategic investment in the future of OCOSAN.

He stressed that strong institutions are built on strong structures and noted that the secretariat would provide the physical infrastructure necessary for sustainable growth, improved governance and enhanced service delivery to members.

Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe also commended the leadership of the association for initiating the project and urged alumni to support its successful completion.

He described the proposed secretariat as a future monument to the vision, dedication and unity of Oriwu College old students.

The leadership of the association echoed similar sentiments.

National President, Alhaji M.B.S. Arole; Deputy President, Mr. Kunle Oshodi; Vice President and Chairman of the Building Committee, TPL Sherifat Yetunde Adegbola Onile-Ere; and National General Secretary, Sholanke Lateef (Arizona), collectively described the project as a critical investment in future generations of alumni.

According to them, the groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a transformational journey toward establishing a permanent home for the association.

“This project is bigger than the present generation,” they noted. “It is a statement that OCOSAN is planning for the future and preparing structures that will serve generations yet unborn.”

The leaders also expressed gratitude to members, donors, stakeholders and supporters whose contributions helped bring the vision to reality.

The ceremony drew an impressive gathering of members of the National Executive Council, including Assistant General Secretary Tunde Anibaba, National Treasurer Abiodun Shitta, National Auditor Mrs. Oladimeji Mutiat, National Social Secretary Abiodun Abari, National Welfare Secretary Miss Abibat Olashile Oshodi, National Publicity Secretary Shoneye O. Samson, National Financial Secretary Adedayo Ekehinde and National Legal Adviser Barrister Tajudeen Anibaba.

As the event concluded, there was a renewed sense of optimism among members who viewed the groundbreaking ceremony as the beginning of a new era for the association.

For an organization built on decades of friendship, shared experiences and collective achievement, the National Secretariat represents more than bricks and mortar.

It represents identity.

It represents continuity.

And above all, it represents the determination of Oriwu College alumni to honour their past while investing boldly in the future.

As construction begins, OCOSAN moves one step closer to realizing a vision that aligns perfectly with its enduring motto: “Per Aspera Ad Astra” — Through Hardships to the Stars.