The Birch Freeman High School in Surulere, Lagos, recently hosted a vibrant celebration as its alumni, the Birch Freeman Old Boys Association (BIFOBA), gathered for their 2026 reunion. The event was marked by joyful reminiscences and discussions on how to further contribute to the school that shaped their lives.
Commissioning of Projects
During the ceremony, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, commissioned two key projects executed by the association. These included an internal road connecting the two school gates, rehabilitated by the 1972 set, and a state-of-the-art science laboratory built by the UK Chapter of BIFOBA.
New Executive Inauguration
The association also swore in a new set of executives to lead its affairs. The new executive members are: General Anthony Onibasa (rtd) as National President; Olalekan Oshodi as Vice President for School Affairs; Lanray Olayinka as Vice President for Government and Member Affairs; Oni Temitope as General Secretary; Adelani Adekunle as Treasurer; Shola Oniwinde as Financial Secretary; Nwosu Chukwueloka as Assistant General Secretary; Ehizele Micheal as General Secretary; Adebuji Sunday as Public Relations Officer; and Joel Akamagwuma as Internal Auditor.
Acceptance Speech
In his acceptance speech, Onibasa thanked members for re-electing him and assured them that his administration would build on past achievements, fostering unity and stronger engagement among members. He emphasized that the essence of old boys' associations is to give back to the alma mater as a token of gratitude for the formative values instilled during school days. Onibasa recalled BIFOBA's achievements over the past 12 months, including the renovation of the school auditorium, rehabilitation of 13 classrooms in the Senior School, and provision of over 200 seats and benches along with 26 new white marker boards. He also noted that between 2024 and 2025, the association sponsored tutorials to prepare students for UTME, WAEC, and NECO exams, contributing to the success of many students now excelling in higher institutions across the country.
Other Remarks
Earlier, the Chairman of the Reunion Planning Committee, Olugbemi Soyinka, described the gathering as more than a reunion, symbolizing shared history, unity, and enduring bonds. The Chairman of the Transition Committee, Denjo Okuyiga, described the reunion and inauguration as a long journey and urged the new leaders to embrace all old students. The principals of the Senior and Junior Schools, Mrs. Ajiboye Sakirat and Mr. Oriola Bamidele, praised the alumni for their interventions, which have significantly improved teaching and learning at the school.
