As I sit down to write this article, nostalgia washes over me, transporting me back to the hallowed halls of Nike Grammar School, where memories of academic excellence, sports prowess, and lifelong friendships were forged. As the National President of our esteemed alma mater’s Old Boys Association, I issue a clarion call to all Nike Grammar School Old Boys to remember our rich history, revive our ailing infrastructure, and support our fellow alumni in need.
Our school, founded in 1958, has a proud tradition of producing outstanding individuals who have made their mark in various fields. We boast of a legacy that includes distinguished alumni who have excelled in academics, sports, and the arts. Our football team, the “Nike Lions,” was a force to be reckoned with, winning numerous championships and producing talented players like Christian Chukwu, Austin JJ Okocha, Emma JJ Okocha, Charles Okonkwo, Arthur Egbunam, Ikechukwu Ofoje, who went on to represent Enugu Rangers and Nigeria at international levels.
But our achievements didn’t stop there. Innocent Egbunike, an athlete and 400 meters runner, won a bronze medal at the Olympics. And in the intellectual and professional sphere, Okwudili Chukwuani, Ndukwo Ndukwo Ogbuja, Christopher Uzoma, Tyndel Ezechi, Barnabas Ijeh, Gordian Eze, Eustace Chime, Gerald Ikedilo, Emma Nwobodo, Mike Aduma, Chidi Ogbonna, Boniface Nnaji, Severo Bonomi, and many others have made significant contributions in their various fields.
In politics, our alumni have also made their mark, with Hon. Charles Odedo, Engr. Godwin Emeka, and Hon. Gabriel Agbo serving in the House of Representatives, National Assembly at different times. Chief Victor Oye, former National Chairman of APGA, and Chief of Staff, Government of Enugu State, Chief Victor Udeh, are also notable mentions. In Public Service, Arc. Obi Okonkwo and Engr. Tochukwu, serving Permanent Secretaries in Anambra State, John Ngene Egbo, a triple Commissioner in Enugu State and a successful Security expert are worthy of mention.
However, as we bask in the glory of our past achievements, we cannot ignore the current state of our beloved school. The once-immaculate buildings now bear the scars of time and neglect. The infrastructure, which was once the envy of other schools, is now in a state of disrepair. It is our collective responsibility to restore our alma mater to its former glory.
Let us remember the values that Nike Grammar School instilled in us: discipline, hard work, and teamwork. Let us channel these values into action, and let us work together to restore our school to its former glory.
I urge all Old Boys to join me in this noble endeavor. Let us unite to:
– Raise funds to renovate and modernize our school’s infrastructure
– Establish a mentorship program to support our fellow alumni
– Create job opportunities and provide financial assistance to those in need
– Organize reunions and events to reconnect and strengthen our bonds
Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can revive the glory days of Nike Grammar School.
Join me in this clarion call to action. Let us rise to the challenge and make our alma mater proud once again.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Maxwell Menkiti Ngene
National President, Nike Grammar School Old Boys Association.
