Command Day Ojo ’94 Set Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Friendship, Growth

Funmi Ogundare

It was a celebration, recently as the Command Day, Ojo 94 set alumni association marked its 30th anniversary of graduating from the school.

The programme, which started with an aerobic exercise session,  medical talk and screening at De Meros Hotel and Suites Ikeja, Lagos,  witnessed classmates marking decades of friendship, growth and shared experiences. The event also witnessed lively network sessions and the sharing of business ideas, launch and dinner.

In a stirring address to classmates, Dr. Kunle Megbuwawon, the association’s president, reflected on the remarkable journey of the group, sharing personal insights and setting a bold vision for the future.

Dr. Megbuwawon, who is also a survivor of a near-death experience, began his speech with a powerful personal story.

“I stand here today with 20 bullets in my neck,” he shared, recounting the traumatic experience that left him grateful for life. “When I say I understand what it means to be close to death, I truly do,” he said, emphasising the value of each new day and his deep gratitude for the support of friends and family.

He emphasised the theme of unity and the power of strong networks, urging members to recognise the importance of building and maintaining meaningful connections. 

Drawing from his own experience, he recalled how a classmate had helped him secure a job through a referral, leading to a new role and the desired salary. 

“Your network is your net worth,” he stated. “It’s not about what you know but who you know.”

The president also paid tribute to the founding members of the alumni group, remembering the efforts of Fabian Ajatition, Ehimema Eboigbe and Biodun Bonuola-Ozurumba, who laid the groundwork for the association’s formation.

“I remember the first meeting I hosted at my house and how we worked to establish this group,” he recalled, honouring the pioneering spirit of those who set up the first executive council and the association’s foundational projects, including donations to their alma mater.

Reflecting on the growth and achievements of the alumni association, Megbuwawon noted several key milestones during his tenure. Under his leadership, the group was registered as an official entity with its bank account and a more transparent financial structure. He explained the strict checks and balances in place to ensure funds’ safety and accountability, sharing how a team of trusted individuals audited and managed the association’s finances.

As the tenure of the current executive committee nears its end, Megbuwawon expressed optimism for the future of the association, highlighting the upcoming election for new executive members and encouraging greater participation from all alumni. 

“We are moving into a phase of prosperity,” he said. “It is time for us to start building wealth as an association and for each member to thrive.”

He also spoke about the association’s plans to foster business opportunities for its members. With the founding of committees focused on fundraising and business ventures, the president stressed the importance of ensuring that all members are fully engaged in shaping the future of the alumni group. 

“We are a class of highly intellectual, resourceful individuals,” he said, citing the impressive achievements of members, including the association’s head boy, who commands respect for his leadership and vision.

He urged the alumni to begin preparing for the future, particularly as many members approach retirement. 

“We should not be relying on pensions,” he said, emphasising the need to invest in businesses that provide long-term financial security. 

He added, “Let us build businesses that will support us as we age and ensure that we are all thriving in the years to come.”

The president also encouraged alumni members to stay involved and to bring others into the fold.

“We are stronger together, and the best is yet to come,” he said.

A consultant gynaecologist, Dr. Mojoyinola, shared valuable insights on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, emphasising habits, nutrition, sleep, and mental well-being. She also emphasised the importance of simple, consistent habits

such as drinking at least eight glasses of water daily, learning to manage stress by saying no when necessary, forgiving others, creating separate spaces for work and rest, avoiding work addiction, and regularly checking key health indicators.