GSS Koton-Karfe alumnus holds meeting, praises Sen. Karimi, Rep Aguye for project support
…..Pay homage to Ohimegye Igu Koton-Karfe for a royal blessing
By Yahaya Idris, Kogi
The alumnus of Government Secondary School Koton-Karfe and now Government Science Secondary school in Kogi Local Government Area recently held an extract large meeting with members who graduated in 1975, 1978, 1986, 1999 and 2001 sets in attendance. This gathering reflects the active engagement of former students in the school’s community, although the meeting which usually hold in Lokoja now held successfully in GSS Koton-Karfe.
In Kogi State, Government Secondary School Koton-Karfe, also referred to as Government Science Secondary School, is one of the oldest secondary schools, established in 1971. The school has struggled with challenges such as infrastructural issues. Efforts have been made to enhance the school facilities, including ongoing projects facilitated by some leaders and alumnus members of the school.
This alumni meeting underscores the continued connection and commitment of former students to the school despite their tight schedule.
Welcoming members of the association, Mr. Adamu Mohammed Alabi thanked God for sparing their lives to witness another significant meeting day, emphasizing that the collective commitment of members endowed the association with the strength to accomplish its goals.
Mr. Alabi, a former teacher of the 1986 set and a graduand 1978 set, expressed great pride in the alumni’s cooperative efforts and support, revealing how these contributions significantly facilitated the school’s socioeconomic advancement and growth.
Alabi’s aligns with findings that alumni associations often play crucial roles in educational development by providing financial support, scholarships, mentorship, and infrastructural improvements, which collectively enhance the quality of education and promote socioeconomic progress within the school community.
According to him, such cooperative efforts among alumni help bridge funding gaps, improve school facilities, and support students and staff, thereby fostering a more inclusive and thriving educational environment.
Mr. Alabi informed members that the National Association is pleased with their efforts. He also mentioned that former Senator Ado Shuaibu could not attend due to indisposition, but the Senator called during the programme to express his support and pledged to abide by all decisions made by the association.
He said Senator Ado Shuaibu who graduated in 1975
support demonstrates ongoing engagement and commitment from key stakeholders, even in their absence, reinforcing unity and collective decision-making within the association.
His Lordship Ahmed Abdullahi, Chairman of the GSS Koton-Karfe Alumnus representing Lokoja and also serving as a Judge of the Upper Area Court in Lokoja, expressed gratitude to all members, especially acknowledging the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Civil Service Commission, Barrister Muhammed Musa Tanko Osuku, for his tireless efforts in providing logistics and support that have contributed to the progress and development of the association.
Abdullahi, who is also a graduand of the 1986 set, stated that Barrister Muhammed Musa Tanko has been the source of strength behind the progress of the association, emphasizing that he has never tired of using his personal resources for the cause of this noble association.
According, Barrister Tanko’s selfless dedication and continuous support, which have been pivotal to the association’s development is touching and encouraging
Barrister Muhammed Musa Tanko Osuku, Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Civil Service Commission, commended all those who have contributed in various ways to ensuring the progress and development of the association is sustained.
The former Chairman recognition reeled out the collective effort behind the association’s achievements and his appreciation for continued support to maintain its growth.
The Kogi LG award winning legal luminary emphasized transparency, integrity, and collaborative progress.
Alhaji Tanko, a former Chairman of Kogi local government area, revealed that the association has united members regardless of tribe, religion, or social considerations. He said the association’s role in fostering inclusivity and solidarity among diverse groups.
The Kogi civil service boss acknowledge the Principal of GSS Koton-Karfe, Mallam Dauda for his support at ensuring the infrastructure is not only improved but rather protected from vandalism.
“I advised that our father, a former teacher, alumni of GSS Koton-Karfe, should create a template to involve all sets in contributing their quota toward addressing the school’s issues. This approach would foster collective responsibility and ensure every graduating set actively supports the school’s development and progress. Such a coordinated effort aligns with successful alumni models that harness the strength of all members for sustained socioeconomic advancement.” Tanko added.
He specifically thanked their former teacher and alumnus of GSS Koton-Karfe, Mr. Adamu Mohammed Alabi, for his support towards the association and urged others to come out and be part of the movement.
Shortly after their meeting, the association paid homage to Ondaki Ogbani-Warri Koton-Karfe, who is also a member, and to His Royal Majesty, the Ohimegye Igu Koton-Karfe, Alhaji Dr. Saidu Akawu Salihu, at his palace. During the visit, the Ohimegye commended the alumni for their support, noting that their contributions have improved the school’s infrastructure.
The group commended Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, Hon. Danladi Suleiman Aguye, and other donors for facilitating key projects at the school, including the laboratory, ICT center, administrative block, and a storey classroom block. Senator Karimi, in particular, has been recognized for his significant contributions to educational and infrastructural development in Kogi West, with a record of supporting projects that enhance learning environments and community growth. These efforts, alongside those of Hon. Aguye and other benefactors, have directly improved school facilities, reflecting a strong commitment to advancing education and infrastructure in the area.
According to Global Times Nigeria correspondent, Yahaya Idris reports that, shortly after the meeting, the group enjoyed refreshments, took a group photograph, and held a reunion where members exchanged contacts, especially reconnecting with those who had not met for decades. This gathering fostered camaraderie and strengthened bonds among the alumni.
