GSS ILORIN 1980 SET CELEBRATE 45 YEARS of GRADUATION AND 50 YEARS OF ENTRY

By Olayinka Sunday Iroye

The Government Secondary School (GSS) Ilorin, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious post-primary institutions with over a century of existence, is once again in the spotlight as the 1980 Set of its Old Boys Association marks two remarkable milestones, 50 years since their entry into Form One and 45 years since their graduation.

Founded over 100 years ago, GSS Ilorin has nurtured and produced countless eminent personalities who have contributed to the growth of Kwara State, Nigeria, and the global community in diverse areas of human endeavour: law, medicine, education, engineering, politics, religion, public service, and business. The school remains a beacon of discipline and academic excellence, a place where values and virtues are instilled in young minds.

The 1980 Set has remained a shining example of loyalty to their alma mater. Beyond lifting themselves in their professional callings, they have consistently supported the growth of GSS Ilorin through projects, mentorship, and direct interventions. Today, they converge to commission an anniversary project, present merit awards, and celebrate God’s faithfulness in sparing their lives to witness this auspicious occasion.

The school’s motto, written in Arabic – “مَجَدَ وَجَدَ” (Majada Wa Jada) translates as “No Struggle, No Success.” This timeless maxim, coupled with the horse symbol of strength on the school’s crest, has propelled generations of students, including the 1980 Set, to aim high and achieve excellence without relenting. It is therefore no surprise that this set continues to record remarkable successes in their careers and in service to humanity.

This year’s celebration is particularly unique. It coincides with the exact date in 1975 when the 1980 Set resumed into Form One, and by divine arrangement, also falls on the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Truly, this is a celebration of heritage, faith, and destiny.

Despite its rich history and legacy, GSS Ilorin is today in dire need of government intervention. Most of the school’s infrastructure has become dilapidated and requires urgent revamping and construction to restore the institution to its pride of place as one of Nigeria’s foremost secondary schools. We therefore appeal to the Kwara State Government to come to the aid of this historic school, so that it may continue to produce leaders for generations to come.

It is worthy of note that GSS Ilorin remains the only secondary school in Nigeria today that still maintains a students’ exchange programme– a practice that has enriched learning experiences and fostered unity among young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds. This rare feature must be preserved and supported.

The Anniversary Committee, ably led by the Chairman of the 1980 Set, Alhaji Yusuf Abdullahi, alongside the Central Planning Committee, deserve commendation for their tireless efforts in making this celebration a reality. Their leadership reflects the true spirit of sacrifice, unity, and dedication that defines the GSS Ilorin Old Boys.

Special appreciation also goes to all invited guests and dignitaries, especially the Guest of Honour, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, Honourable Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Kwara State; the Global President of the GSS Ilorin Alumni Association, Barrister Olasheni Ibiwoye, SAN; and other distinguished Old Boys and award recipients who continue to lift the name of GSS Ilorin with pride.

As the 1980 Set celebrates this glorious landmark, l congratulate them heartily and wish them many more years of fruitful contributions to their alma mater and society. May the bonds of friendship and loyalty that started within the walls of GSS Ilorin continue to flourish, and may the school’s glory endure for generations yet unborn.

Happy Anniversary to the GSS Ilorin 1980 Set, men of strength, resilience, and success!

Olayinka Iroye is an Educational Administrator, Public Affairs Commentator, PR Consultant, and Clergyman. He serves as the Director of Information, Public Relations, and Protocols at The Federal Polytechnic Offa. He is also a proud Old Boy of Government Secondary School, Ilorin (Class of 1980).