By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu, Ottawa, Canada/
As Abeokuta Girls Grammar School (AGGS) marks its 70th anniversary on February 14, alumni from around the world are coming together to celebrate a legacy of academic and athletic excellence. The school’s iconic blue and white checkered uniform remains a symbol of distinction, reflecting decades of achievement and impact.
Founded in 1955, AGGS has nurtured generations of accomplished women who continue to make significant contributions in various fields. The Abeokuta Girls Grammar School Old Students Association (AGGSOGA) plays a vital role in the school’s continued growth, fostering a strong sense of community and commitment among alumni.
AGGSOGA boasts an impressive roster of distinguished professionals, including Dr. Bolanle Hammond, retired Commissioner for Education, Ogun State; Ambassador Susan Aderonke Folarin, former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain; Mrs. Amope Ajibola Chokor, former Head of Service, Ogun State; Chief Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, Ogun State Chief Judge; and Mrs. Funmi Adesoye, former Head of Service, Lagos State.
Other notable alumni include Lagos State High Court Judge, Justice Toyin Odusanya; Mrs. Aderonke Makanjuola, former Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Board for Technical & Vocational Education and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science & Technology, Oyo State; and Mrs. Risikat Foluso Sali, retired Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation, Oyo State.
Elder Adedoyin Onayiga, AGGS’s first Head Girl from the Class of 1960, beams with pride as she reflects on this milestone, her pioneering spirit continuing to inspire younger generations.
Under the visionary leadership of past and present National and Global Presidents—including Chief Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, Yeye Otunba Adetola Hassan, and Mrs. Elizabeth Olusolape Ajibola—AGGSOGA has spearheaded initiatives that drive unity, expansion, and progress. Their efforts have solidified AGGS’s standing as a center of excellence.
A Tradition of Growth and Giving Back
The 70th anniversary is not just a celebration of history but also a testament to transformation. Over the past two years, under the leadership of Mrs. Olusolape Ajibola, AGGS has seen significant infrastructure upgrades, including new buildings, renovations, painting, electrification, and enhanced academic support, such as extramural classes for final-year students.
A major milestone was the donation of a fully equipped library by the NNPC Foundation. Additionally, Alhaja Bankole’s sponsorship remains a highly anticipated goal.
Ajibola has also driven a successful membership expansion, establishing additional AGGSOGA branches both locally and internationally. Her unifying efforts have strengthened alumni engagement, leading to generous contributions, including extensive hostel refurbishments by various graduating sets.
Today, AGGS stands tall as a modern institution, boasting a state-of-the-art digitalized hall—an achievement that positions it among world-class learning centers.
A lasting legacy of Yeye Otunba Adetola Hassan’s tenure is the introduction of a bespoke blue and white checkered Aso Oke fabric. This social uniform for AGGS alumni beautifully complements the school’s official attire, serving as a proud emblem of their shared heritage.
As AGGS turns 70, its alumni remain united in their commitment to preserving the school’s tradition of excellence. The third stanza of the school anthem echoes their enduring bond:
“Dreaming of the days we spent here,
Lingering will renew,
Still with love and hope,
We’ll cherish memories of thee.”
With a history of achievement and a future of promise, AGGS continues to shape generations of women ready to take on the world.
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AGGS is a school worth alma mata for all girls..It really shaped my life ..Up School