Dipo Kehinde/
It was nostalgia, laughter, and rhythm galore yesterday as the 1977–1980 set of the Federal School of Arts and Science (FSAS) reunited at the Scala Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, to mark their 45th Anniversary Reunion, a gathering that proved age is no barrier to groove, grace, or gratitude.
The highlight of the day was a thought-provoking talk by DIG Leye Oyebade (rtd), mni, titled “Building Trust for Societal Growth.””
In his characteristic humour-laced delivery, the former Deputy Inspector-General of Police held the hall spellbound as he dissected the pillars of integrity, self-reflection, and honesty in everyday life.
“Integrity is the foundation of trust,” he said. “Without integrity, you can not build anything that lasts, not a marriage, not a business, not a nation.”
He urged the audience to make integrity their daily compass: “Be the same person in the dark as you are in the light. That’s the only way people will believe in you.”
Oyebade, whose talk sparked spontaneous applause, described trust as “the invisible currency of all human relationships.” He noted that a society only grows “when individuals keep their word, respect others, and show empathy.”
In another illuminating session, Mrs Gbeke Mary Aloko of Health Garden International gave a no-nonsense Health Talk that blended science with tough love.
“Please,” she pleaded, “don’t be a friend to sugar and salt!”
She reminded the gathering that health is wealth, urging everyone to “be selfish to yourself.”
“All your life you’ve cared for children, parents, people, now it’s time to care for yourself,” she said, encouraging the alumni to check their BP, sugar levels, and BMI regularly.
Her plain-spoken advice earned laughter and knowing nods from the audience, who agreed that self-care was the new wealth.
The microphone later passed around the room as members introduced themselves, trading jokes and revisiting long-forgotten escapades. Tales of catching fun under Obalende Bridge, the hostel roof that once flew off during a storm, and those teenage claims of being “quiet students” brought roars of laughter.
Otunba David Idiabana, who flew in from the UK, modestly described himself as “a gentle student who has remained gentle.” The gentleness even showed in his groove as he swayed gracefully to Kool & The Gang’s “Let’s Go Dancing.”
Then came the feast, a spread of sumptuous canapés, mouth-watering meals, and endless drinks that could tempt even the most disciplined dieter. Vice-President Patience Idirigbe ensured everyone was well fed.
The cutting of the anniversary cake set the tone for a dance-floor explosion led by two professional performers, Grace and Peace (G&P Dancers), whose electric moves fanned the flames of joy.
Soon, retirees in their mid-sixties were pulling off dance steps that could humble a TikTok influencer.
From Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” to Madonna’s “La Isla Bonita,” the floor was hot, hot, hot! literally, as Arrow’s Calypso anthem confirmed.
Cheers went up when Ebi Aganaba, visiting from Canada, announced her new status as a proud grandmother. The hall echoed with congratulations.
Bashorun Sylvester Ola Adebomi, the Osi Daranijo of Egbaland, reflected on how FSAS instilled discipline and ambition that carried them through life’s challenges.
Richard Mbabu, retired accountant and treasurer, reminisced about class genius Bayo Olowo-Ake, the walking encyclopedia of current and military affairs. He was his news source before there was Google.
The event was steered by the association’s leadership, led by President Patience Amahian, whose warm charisma set the tone for the party. She was joined by other members of the executive council, including Bayo Olowo-Ake, Chairman of the Governing Council, who also anchored the programme with charm and wit; Patience Idirigbe, Vice President; Bob Amadi, Social Secretary; Mary Richard Mbabu, Treasurer; and Mary Agbabiaka, the Immediate Past Vice President. Their coordination ensured the reunion ran seamlessly, a true reflection of teamwork and enduring friendship.
Among those who graced the lively gathering were Bob Amadi, Patience Amahia, Adebayo Olowo-Ake, Ekanem Iteogu, Otunba David Idiabana, DIG Leye Oyebade (rtd), Patience Idirigbe, Pius Omo Idowu, Mary Agbabiaka, Ebi Aganaba, Dora Amahian, Akanji Olufemi Samson, Mary Gbeke Aloko, Yemi Famakin, Morenike Famakin, Godwin Ovedhe, Vincent Akpoborie, Kola Sofuwa (a retired Deputy Comptroller of Immigration), Richard Mbabu, Chinyere Mbabu, Hamza Jose, Vera Kanabe, Adebunmi Adekanye, Adepeju Sumon, and Godfrey Uwhubetine.
As the day deepened, it became clear that FSAS wasn’t just a school, it was a spirit. A spirit of camaraderie, laughter, and lifelong friendship.
DIG Oyebade’s words lingered in the air as the music faded: “When trust becomes the culture, greatness becomes the destiny.”
At Scala Hall, that culture of trust, loyalty, and shared memories danced right along with the beat, proof that the FSAS 77–80 Set may have grown older but never apart.
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