The National President of the James Welch Grammar School Old Boys Association, Engr. Fred Edafioghor, has unveiled an ambitious ₦600 million fundraising and development plan aimed at revitalizing James Welch Grammar School, Emevor, and ensuring a befitting celebration of the institution's 70th anniversary in 2027.
Speaking at the Association’s Special General Meeting (SGM) held at the school premises, Edafioghor said the administration would aggressively pursue support from government intervention agencies, corporate organizations, distinguished old boys, class sets, branches, and other stakeholders to restore critical infrastructure and reposition the school for future generations.
The President, who welcomed members from across the country and the diaspora, commended the impressive turnout at the meeting, including participants who joined virtually via Zoom. He noted that the hybrid format recorded one of the largest attendances in the Association's history and reflected members’ growing commitment to the progress of the OBA and their alma mater.
According to him, the administration remains committed to a vision-driven and purpose-oriented agenda focused on sustainable growth, institutional strengthening, and the restoration of the school's fading glory.
A major highlight of the meeting was the consideration and final ratification of the Association’s reviewed Constitution as submitted by the Constitution Review Committee. The new Constitution formally recognizes class sets as an integral component of the Association’s structure, a move widely applauded by members as a strategic step towards broader participation and inclusiveness.
Members painstakingly examined the constitutional provisions clause-by-clause before unanimously adopting the document.
In another landmark development, Edafioghor presented the Association’s annual budget for the next fiscal year, the first comprehensive budget presentation by an administration in the Association’s recent history. The budget projects total revenue of ₦135,820,771.00 against a proposed expenditure of ₦189,158,545.85.
The President also unveiled a detailed fundraising blueprint targeted at raising ₦600 million by February 2027 to support the rehabilitation of the school and the celebration of its platinum jubilee.
He urged old boys to contribute generously and undertake legacy projects that would leave enduring footprints in the institution.
“Today also witnessed the unveiling of the plan to raise ₦600 million for the rehabilitation of the school and the celebration of our 70th anniversary – an ambitious target, but one that reflects the scale of what our alma mater needs and the pride we take in her 70-year legacy," Edafioghor stated.
He acknowledged the various interventions already undertaken by branches, class sets, and individual old boys but stressed the need for greater coordination and long-term planning.
“If we are serious about lasting impact, there is need for proper coordination of school renovation works. The works we do now must see us through the next 50 to 70 years with minimal maintenance.
The School Improvement, Academic Standards and Maintenance Committee will serve as a clearing house for all infrastructure projects to ensure quality, prevent duplication, and guarantee value for money,” he added.
The meeting also witnessed the formal inauguration of key standing committees expected to drive the Association’s programmes and strategic initiatives over the coming years.
In his remarks, the Proprietor of the school and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Oleh, Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, commended the renewed enthusiasm and commitment being demonstrated by old boys towards the development of their alma mater.
“I am particularly delighted to be in your midst today to witness the renewed commitment of our old boys towards the growth and development of our beloved alma mater,” the Bishop said.
He called on all old boys, irrespective of their class sets, locations, or affiliations, to support the Association's vision and contribute towards making the school's 70th anniversary a historic success.
“This milestone anniversary presents a unique opportunity for us to showcase our rich heritage, celebrate our achievements, and invest in the future of our institution. Let every old boy see himself as a stakeholder in the success of this historic event,” he urged.
The Bishop further disclosed that, as part of the Anglican Church's commitment to the school, plans had already been concluded to provide modern hostel beds valued at approximately ₦20 million to improve students' welfare and learning conditions.
According to him, the intervention underscores the Church’s determination to continue supporting the growth and development of the institution.
The meeting attracted notable and distinguished old boys from across the country, comprising jurists, politicians, academics, branch leaders, class set representatives, and other stakeholders who pledged their support for the Association’s reform and development agenda.
The Special General Meeting is widely regarded as a significant milestone in the history of the Association, laying the foundation for constitutional reforms, stronger alumni participation, enhanced transparency, and a coordinated effort towards the restoration of James Welch Grammar School as it prepares to celebrate seven decades of educational excellence.
