July 2008 Update

Professor Tagirin A. Fregene, MD, PhD Passes On To Eternity

Professor Tagirin A. Fregene entered Government College Ughelli in 1951 and was in Sapele House. He moved onto Ashaka House as one of the foundation students of the new house. Professor Fregene had excellent results both in School Certificate (O-Level) and Higher School Certificate (A-Level). He went on to get a PhD in Physics at Cambridge University in the UK and was at the College of Medicine at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). He later came to the US to get an accelerated MD, and, of course, specialized as a medical physicist. He was a department head at UNILAG, before he moved to the US several years ago and worked both in university and private hospitals in cancer treatment.

Professor Fregene was a brilliant man who excelled in his field and was world-renowned. He died on Thursday July 24, 2008 in Detroit, Michigan, USA. He is survived by his wife, five sons, two of whom are MD’s, a daughter also an MD, and grandchildren.

Dr. Ogbemi O. Omatete (his cousin), President – GCU-OBA-NMAERICAS
Sunday July 27, 2008

June 2008 Update

GOOD NEWS ABOUT GOVERNMENT COLLEGE UGHELLI – OUR ALMA MATER

Ogbemi O. Omatete ’53 - President GCU-OBA-NAMERICA

This report was begun several months ago but was not completed until now. Whether late or not, contrary to the past reports, there is extremely encouraging news about our alma mater. I shall report events in chronological order.

DECEMBER 1ST 2007 - LAGOS STATE BRANCH ANNUAL DINNER –
SHERATON HOTEL, LAGOS

The Dinner
The annual dinner is an occasion not only for socializing but also, more importantly, for raising funds for the development and improvement GCU. The governors of Delta and Lagos States were invited. The commissioner of education, a very articulate lady, represented the governor of Delta State. Two interesting items on the agenda for that night were: Awards and Recognition of Old Boys, and Launching of GCU Vision 2015. Your humble president was amongst several outstanding old boys honored. The Government College Ughelli Vision 2015, written by Chief (Engr.) J. J. Akpieyi, President of the Lagos State Chapter with a foreword by Chief G. O. Onosode, OFR, President – General, GCU-OBA world-wide, although not officially launched that night, was available on sale.

GCU Vision 2015
Some of you may have read the draft GCU Vision, which was emailed to you. The complete neatly bound publication describes GCU from its inception to its current state. When you read those chapters, you will, once again, relate to your beloved alma mater and bemoan how it has fallen. However, Chapters 4, 5 and 6, “Where We Would Like To Be”, “How To Get There” and “Implementation Action Plan” as well as Annex 4 – “Action Plan Details” give us hope. The exciting news is that, under the dynamic leadership of the Lagos State branch, the revival of our alma mater has begun. The funds that they have raised including the one million naira from our branch has been and is being used to refurbish GCU! – more about this later.

I brought about twenty (20) copies of GCU Vision 2015 from Nigeria. If you want a copy, let me know within two weeks of receiving this report. It will cost a minimum of fifty dollars ($50.00). The money will be used not only to recoup the cost of its publication but also to add to the development fund for GCU. I promised to sell all the copies. If I do not hear from you, I will call you and send a copy to you with the appropriate bill.

The Program – GCU Refurbishing
At the impressive dinner, what caught my attention most was not the gorgeous dinning-set, nor the gaily and beautiful attired old boys and their spouses and guests, but the published program. In particular the center pages of the program, which showed pictures of dilapidated GCU buildings and the same buildings refurbished, including insides of a classroom. I have sent the program to Bestman Efejuku so that he can reproduce some of those pictures on our website. In these pictures, you will see how we can transform our alma mater with the necessary funding and proper leadership. It becomes obvious why we need to tax ourselves to help our school.

JANUARY 19, 2008 FOUNDER’S DAY AT GOVERNMENT COLLEGE, UGHELLI

On Founder’s Day, January 19, branches of GCU – OBA all over the world meet at the school. It usually consists of three parts: morning assembly at the Assembly Hall with students, teachers and administrators, and old boys; inspection of the school; and an annual general meeting of all branches of GCU-OBA.

Morning Assembly
In the morning around 7:00 AM, just like when our famed principal such as Powell or Carter was presiding, there was assembly of students, teachers and administrators, and old boys for morning prayers. Chief Onosode, our illustrious President-General, in his dedication and discipline, as usual was there along with a few others, to represent the old boys. It was too early for me to be there especially since I drove in from Warri.

Visible Improvement
Around 8:30 AM, I arrived at the gate at GCU. When the gate was opened and we drove in, I was really surprised by the condition of Appian Way. Contrary to the pothole filled, bumpy road that I had driven on during my visits in the past several years, Appian Way was tarred and its sides well demarcated with cement blocks. The large trees on either side provided cool shade against the rising torrid, tropical sun. It really was a pleasant surprise. We drove down onto the main campus to see the main block brightly painted as shown in the dinner program. I came down and took several pictures of the buildings, which will be posted on our website.

School Inspection – More Improvements
At about 9:00 AM, the old boys led by the President-General, set off to go through what used to be our four football fields or several cricket fields depending on the season, to visit our once famous pavilion. Again, this was a surprise because in the past it was difficult and even impossible to do this due to dense vegetation everywhere. The whole field had been cleared with a tractor thanks to the generosity of an old boy in the state’s ministry of works. So, this time, some people walked, others took their air-conditioned vehicles partly or all the way down to the pavilion.

We saw the pavilion broken down, but we were told that its structures were still very good and so it could be refurbished. Behind the pavilion and for as far as we see, there was a wall. Thanks to the foresight of some old boys, a wall had been built to demarcate the school’s property. Despite the wall, people still trespass and we all saw a recent large hole in the wall, strategically hidden behind the pavilion. It will be sealed up later. (I saw a recently through the Lagos State branch an appeal from GCU for sports uniform and cricket).

The next item was the inspection of the dormitories. Starting from Oleh, we went inspected Ashaka, Sapele, School, Warri and Forcados houses, respectively. Of course, there were shouts and other lobbying tactics for various houses by their respective alumni, since prizes were to be awarded at the end of the inspection. The inspection was very thorough like we were used too. As in times of old, we pointed out cobwebs and dust at odd places the students were unaccustomed to cleaning.

Some houses were refurbished almost completely, others were being repainted or the roofs repaired. But the changes were everywhere, the students and staff were excited that we have shown such interest in the school. There was feeling of progress and that old boys could help and actually are helping to revitalize the school. (I received email recently of satellite images of GCU where roofs of three houses were bright indicating new roofs?)

Finally, we all - old boys, teachers, administrators and students - gathered in the Assembly Hall for awards ceremony to be followed by the annual general meeting. Before I report further, let me report on the library, which was assigned to our association from the previous meeting and you asked me to look into.

Government College Ughelli library
On previous visits, I had been unsuccessful in getting into the library or when I did it was so poorly kept that I left in disgust. This time I went in and found that it had been cleaned out. Tables were set up for students to read. The shelves were cleaned out so that students could go into the stacks. Pictures of sports teams and one with the principal were displayed appropriately on top of the shelves. One had a feeling that students may be using the library again. However, it was obvious that new reading tables and chairs were required and that the inside needed refurbishing, although it has been repainted already.

From GCU Vision 2015 (page 54-55) -- “by 1976, the college (GCU) library had developed into the largest and best equipped in the Midwest State. It was reported to have a total collection of 11,967 volumes, about 50 different types of periodicals and 5 national newspapers.” This is at least a good reason to own the GCU Vision 2015.

You asked to find out if any old boys belong to clubs like Rotary International (RI). I know that Chief M. O. Uloho ’51, president of Warri OBA and a national vice president, is a very active member of RI. When I discussed what we had in mind with him. He laughed. He said his branch with the assistance of RI, had sent load (container?) of books to Nigeria in the past. However, all the books were lost at customs because they could not clear the container probably because of funds. He suggested that before we consider that option, we should ensure that we could get the books through the notorious Nigerian Customs system.

Finally, it was felt that we should not provide text books in the library as these will be stolen. We should not forget that about half of the students are not boarders. We are free to debate this. General and reference books were suggested. The Vision 2015 envisages electronic library for GCU.

Assembly and Prize/Awards – What A Change?
The first thing that impressed me was that the Assembly had been refurbished and repainted inside. Unless you had been visiting the school previously, you cannot visualize the change. It looked like the GCU of the 50’s to the 70’s. See my pictures at the website.

Until this year there was only one prize, William Morhefe Obele Shield, which was initiated by me in memory of my late classmate. Initially for SSS only, it was increased to two, one for JSS and the other for SSS. However, this year the number of prizes increased over tenfold. I will list the new ones as best as I can recall with minimal details:
PRIZE DONOR
1. Three V.B. V. Powell Scholars Chief J. J. Akpieyi
2. Dumaka Okeke Shield (Mathematics) Dr. T. Idemudia
3. Two - Best Behaved Student Warri Branch OBA
4. Best Student JSS III Exams
5. Best Student SSS III Exams
6. Best Science Student
7. Best Geography Student
8. Footballer of the Year
9. Cricketer of the Year
10. Best House of the Year
11. Best House Master of the Year
12. Best Teacher in JSS
13. Best Teacher in SSS

Including mine, there are now a total of fourteen prizes each consisting of certificate and cash. All cash prizes were worth thousands of naira. I know that the London branch was considering a prize and I think that GCU-OBA-NAMERICA needs to give some prizes too. You can feel the new excitement of old boys for our alma mater.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The annual general meeting came late and I did not stay through all of it as I had to travel back to Warri, then Sapele on my way to Lagos preparatory for departure for the US. However, the following was stressed strongly both at the Lagos State branch Annual Dinner and at our AGM: 1) The development and improvement of GCU is continuous, and 2) Branches need to raise funds to assist in the effort.

Detailed accounts of the millions of Naira spent so far were provided. Chief J. J. Akpieyi, the current president of the Lagos State branch, which is spearheading the refurbishment works, a meticulous businessman and former Warri Refinery manager, strives to ensure transparency in all expenditures. We saw bids and how much was spent and what still had to be done. Old boys who had agreed to supervise contractor gratis were noted and thanked. The obvious result of all this is that the staff and students are very excited. We and they believe that the vision is possible. Government College Ughelli can and will be brought to its glorious days.

GOOD NEWS HERE: GOVERNMENT COLLEGE UGHELLI OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION IN NORTH AMERICA
(GCU-OBA-NAMERICA)

Our association, Government College Ughelli Old Boys’ Association in North America (GCU-OBA-NAMERICAS) is now officially registered in the State of Florida, as a not-for-profit (NFP) organization in the United States under section 511(c) (3) as either public charities or private foundation. Our effective date of exemption is May 20, 2007 until our advanced ruling, which ends December 31, 2011. During this period we will be treated as public charity. I know independently that we are a registered public charity because, since the association is registered with my home address, I have received solicitation from a company that wants to help us raise funds.

Initially, the total cost to register the association as public charity was one thousand seven hundred and thirty five dollars ($1,735.00), which I have paid. Now that we are registered, we must keep very precise records of our incomes and expenditures. An annual not-for-profit corporation report is due by May 1st in Florida. We have done that for this year at a cost of sixty-one dollars and twenty five cents ($61.25). In addition, we have to file a federal tax by the end of June. I plan to pay an accountant to do that.

OVERALL CONCLUSION
Indeed, we have made progress both at home and here. However, we need all to contribute to continue the progress. We can donate generously through our companies or positions to GCU-OBA-NAMERICA, with the knowledge that our donations are tax deductible.

All Mariners, let us put our hands together and join in the improvement of our alma mater. What prizes can we give individually and as an association? Remember that no matter what you have become, Government College Ughelli gave you the solid foundation. Pay up annual dues, redeem your pledges and donate for the good of the school.

MARINERS, remember always to “KEEP THE SHIP SAILING”

June 2008

Nigerian Union of North Florida Inc. Hosts University of Abuja

From: Sawyerr '62 (May 18, 2008)

Hey all, here is some news.

Last weekend (Saturday October 10, 2008) the Nigerian Union of North Florida Incorporated (NUNF Inc) gave the visiting delegation from the University of Abuja a reception party at the University Staff Club of Florida A&M University (FAMU). This was sequel to the signing of a memorandum of agreement between FAMU and the University of Abuja in the areas of research, student and staff exchange, cultural exchange, etc. The delegation comprised the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja Prof Nuhu Yaqub, the Registrar Mallam Modibbo, the Deputy Registrar (the V. C.'s wife) Mrs Yaqub, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences Prof Otubu, and the head of the Hematology Department Dr Obiageli Nnodu. The President (Olu Sawyerr) and the Vice President (Peter Okonkwo) of the NUNF were invited to the Press Conference for the signing of the agreement between the Universities and offered the assistance of the Nigerian Community in Tallahassee to facilitate the process between the two Universities as the cooperation proceeds.

The delegation visited the City of Tallahassee Transportation Management Center (TMC), at the invitation of the City Traffic Engineer (Olu Sawyerr), to showcase the latest state of the art technology in traffic and transportation management complete with real time monitors etc.

This visit and the signing of the agreement was arranged by Dr. (Mrs) Folakemi Odedina, Professor and Director of Economic, Social, and Administrative Pharmacy at FAMU. She is determined to attract other Nigerian Institutions (not necessarily Universities) to sign similar agreements with FAMU and other American Institutions as a way of opening up and enhancing the educational opportunities for Nigerian educational institutions.

Olu. Sawyerr, President
Nigerian Union of North Florida Inc.
Tallahassee

April 2008 Update

Rev. Paul Aduba Celebrates 60!!!

From: Aduba '62

PEACE, DEAR EFE AND BESTMAN , AS ALL OLD BOYS NEED TO HEAR ABOUT THIS.
WHEN I INITIALLY FIXED MY 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS FOR MARCH 21--THE ACTUAL DAY, DR TAIWO IDEMUDIA SAID HE WILL COME.!!!
HOWEVER, WHEN THE LORD TOLD ME TO START THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, WE HAD TO MOVE THE EVENT TO MARCH 30, TO ACCOMMODATE THE VISIT OF OUR BISHOP. HABA !!! DR IDEMUDIA ALSO SAID HE WILL COME ---ALL THE WAY FROM NIGERIA FOR THIS EVENT, OF WHICH HE IS THE CHAIRMAN.
IS'NT THIS WHAT THE GCU SPIRIT IS ALL ABOUT ?
THIS IS LOVE IN ACTION !!!
I AM THRILLED !!!!
BLESSINGS---BRO PAUL +++

Click image to see slide show

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Hello All:

This year has been bad already for those who entered GCU in the mid 1950's.
My classmate Mr. Edward Robert Egbe '53 passed away early in the year.
Mr.Tony Ojigbo '54 was lost early this month while visiting his children in
Oakland/San Francisco Bay area. His remains were sent to Nigeria for burial.
Just yesterday, Dr. John Ejaife '54 called to say he lost his brother and
classmate at GCU, Augustus Ejaife '54, a few days ago in Lagos Nigeria.
They were known as Ejaife I (Augustus) and Ejaife II (John), respectively.

Please call Dr. John Ejaife, the immediate past vice president of
GCU-OBA-NAMERICAS, to extend condolences on the loss of his very dear
brother. Dr. Ejaife can be reached at 1-585-461-1908.

In addition to the 1950's set, we heard of a 1970's old boy, the amiable Brig Gen. Solomom Giwa-Amu who passed away in Nigeria.

There is also good news about GCU, which I will report soon. But let us pray that
these losses come to an end soon.

Cheers all and keep the ship sailing.

Ogbemi Omatete '53 President GCU-OBA-NAMERICA

January 2008 Update

New Year Message to Members of GCU-OBA-NAMERICAS

On behalf of myself and the executive, I wish all members and their families a happy, prosperous and rewarding New Year. This message is being sent from home, Nigeria, because I am here until the last week of January 2008.

The year coming to an end was an active one for us. We had our third biannual reunion in Dallas in August. The reunion was very successful as we resolved many issues including finally sending our one million naira pledge to the Lagos branch. The camaraderie was wonderful as one would expect when old boys meet although the attendance was lower than expected. During the year we also completed the application to become a non-for-profit (NFP) association. We expect the final approval from the IRS early in the New Year.

As you recall our branch was asked to be responsible for the library at our alma mater and a very able committee has been set up for that purpose. The committee requested that I consult here at home, especially at GCU, to see how we can best carry out the mission. I will do that before I return. There have been many end-of year dinners by the various branches of GCU-OBA in Nigeria. The first was at the Lagos Branch followed by others at Warri, Benin and Ughelli. I was invited to about three but could only attend that in Lagos. During the Lagos dinner, I was one of those given awards. Mine was for "exemplary commitment to the ideals and values of Government College Ughelli". The award was not possible without the constant support of our members, for which I remain grateful. Chief (Mrs.) Agodo, wife of the late GCU No 1 Student, Mr. S. B. Agodo, was also honored.

There were notably old boys at the Lagos dinner including our eminent President General world-wide, Chief Gamaliel Onosode, Mr. Sam Amuka, the publisher of Vanguard newspaper, Dr. Obiora, the retired owner of Eko Hospital and chairman for the occasion, and the active new president of the Lagos branch, Chief (Engr.) J. J. Akpieyi, just to name a few. There were old boys I did not meet in school and of course, those who did not meet me. Both the Lagos and Delta State governors were invited. The Delta State governor was ably represented by the commissioner of education, a very articulate lady. Of course, pressmen were around and our pictures were in some of the Nigerian papers. The dinner program also contained photographs showing renovated buildings at Ughelli compared to when they were dilapidated, demonstrating how our contributions have been used. When I go the Founder's day meeting on January 19, 2008, I will document these in more detail.

Unfortunately within the last week, I just heard that I lost a classmate and good friend, Mr. Robert Eddy Egbe, who retired from United Bank for Africa several years ago and resided in Benin. May his soul rest in perfect peace!

As you may observe, old boys are energized about the school and are working independently and with the Delta State government to restore the school to its past glory. Please, those of us, privileged as we are in North America, should strongly support this effort. Let us all resolve to pay our annual dues and become current. Let us contact old boys in our states or neighboring states and have mini get-togethers. Those who have become less active, please revive your interest. The school needs all of us, no matter our little our contributions.

Mariners, keep the ship sailing!!!

Dr. Ogbemi O. Omatete '53 - President. GCU-OBA-NAMERICAS
Lagos, Nigeria December 31st, 2007

October 2007 Update

Chief A. M. Egoh (1927 - 2007)

Fellow Mariners,

We have been informed by the UK branch that Chief A.M. Egoh died yesterday. He was a member of the Founding class (’45) and the Chairman of the UK branch.

Please click this link for Chief A. M. Egoh's Citation.

=================================
Dear Mariner,

This is to inform you that Chief Albert Mukoro Egoh, student number seven (Pioneering Class of 1945) and Chairman of GCUOBA UK Branch , sadly passed on this morning (Friday, Oct. 2007) in his London home aged 80. Chief Egoh had been ill for a while.

Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. A citation by the UK Branch delivered at UK 2006 Annual Dinner appears on our web site which provides all that you need to know about this most illustrious of Mariners.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peac.

Ochuko Udu
General Secretary
GCUOBA UK Branch
==================================

Dallas 2007 Reunion Photos

As with our reunion tradition, we are sharing a number of photos from the just concluded event. We know you will enjoy seeing current photos of your schoolmates.

Click above to view all photos * Photos courtesy of Imoeker and Ajueyitsi

August 2007 Update

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Fellow Mariners,

The third biannual reunion of GCU-OBA-AMERICAS in Dallas, August 3 – 5, has now come and gone. I know that all those who attended have arrived safely home. Those of us and our families, who were there, had a wonderful time reminiscing and net working. As you know when one or two GCU old boys are gathered together, a good time is guaranteed. I want to take this opportunity to thank, on behalf of the association, two hard working Mariners, Larry Imoeker ’70 and David Eboagu ’73, who labored tirelessly to host us.

I was thrilled to meet two old boys in particular, Dr. Ade Longe ’58 and Prof. M. Mogekwu ’60, whom I last saw in 1960, 47 years ago. The amazing thing is that they had changed very little, still looking like young teenagers of 1960. There were other old boys attending for the first time, Nakpodia ’70, Skelly, and Akpobome. We missed you veterans who were unavoidably absent: Dr. Meb Awipi ’54, Dr. Sam Okpaku ’54, Col R. Emokpae ‘64, Dr. Sido ‘68, Chuks Asibelua ‘70, B. Efejuku ‘69 and Rev. Aduba ‘62 and his rhythmic dancing. I am sure you all had good reasons for your absence. But please, we want to see you all in Toronto in August 2009.

I am happy to report on the action we have taken since the reunion about a fortnight ago. After members made additional contribution to increase our pledge to the GCU Endowment/Development, I was mandated to wire eight thousand dollars home. The correspondence below from Chief J. J. Akpieyi ’54, the president of the Lagos branch shows the action taken and how our contribution will help in developing our beloved alma mater.

…. Please convey the immense gratitude of the entire GCUOBA, Lagos branch to GCUOBA Americas for its kind contribution to the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary Fund. Mozimo assured me today that the money has been received but as soon as I receive the documentary evidence, I shall contact you again.

We are pleased to inform your branch that three contracts have been awarded for the complete renovation/refurbishment of the buildings and facilities at our great alma mater totaling N 16,713,850.00. We have a shortfall of some 6 million naira, which is why Taiwo was given the instructions to bring in your contributions unfailingly. Your contribution has come in most timely! We are deeply grateful.

By the grace of God, two of the contractors will report to the School on Wednesday, 22nd August 2007 to take over their respective sites. Our old boy, Mr. Alfred Avwaruroro, an architect based in Ughelli has willingly and graciously accepted to be the supervising architect.

I am still awaiting your comments on the Vision 2025 document! Please let us have your incisive contribution.

Once again, let me express my thanks to those who have contributed generously. I hope that all of us will continue to do our best to assist GCU. We still have responsibility for equipping the library. Please the Vision 2025 document and send comments to Chief Akpieyi. Let us forever - Keep the Ship Sailing.

Dr. Ogbemi O. Omatete ’53
President, GCU-OBA-AMERICAS

2007 Reunion

The minutes of 2007 Reunion have been emailed to all members. You may request a copy from the Association's secretary (efeo@excite.com).

The President's 2007 report is online and can be downloaded.

Highlights from reunion:

1) The body resolved to raise 1Million Naira that was pledged in 2005 for the endowment and improvement of GCU; approximately $8000 has now been received in pledges.
2) Sawyerr was elected Vice President
3) The "Keep the ship sailing" award went to Enemute Oduaran and Bestman Efejuku.
4) Professional Photographs were taken during the banquet, including “decade” group shots.
5) The next reunions will be held in Toronto (2007) and New York/New Jersey (2009).

Attendance

Efe Oputu '72

VISION 2025

Chief J.J. Akpieyi '54, author of this document, is seeking comments and suggestions. Please forward directly to him at jjakpieyi@yahoo.co.uk.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The 1945 - 1961 periods in the life of Government College Ughelli (GCU) have been dubbed the glorious years of the College. That was the period of stewardship of the Founding Father, Mr. V.B.V.Powell, and his successor Principal, Mr. C.C.Carter. It was during that era that the sound, exemplary GCU cultures and norms were laid.

Since 1962, the excellent cultures and traditions for which the College was reputed have been significantly diluted with the entry of Nigerian Principals, failed State Government education policies and predatory military rule over many decades when education was, most unfortunately, given low priority and attention.... click to download document.

February 2007 Update

I'm one of you, now! - Couple from Nigeria become American citizens

Rev. Paul Aduba and his wife, Josephine, are two of the newest citizens of the United States. The Nigeria immigrants are the living embodiment of the popular anthem, God Bless America.
He describes America as God's own country and a great place to live.
Aduba is the founder and president of Revival Healing Ministries of Christ Inc. He also regularly leads the worship as a supply priest at St. John's Episcopal Church, Bowling Green.
His wife is a licensed practical nurse, working at Liberty Nursing Center, Toledo, as well as other places on a contingency basis.
The couple are proud of their opportunity to become not just citizens, but productive members of society.
He shared a scripture passage from Genesis that comes alive for the minister,
Now that he is one of us.
"I'm one of you, now - I'm an American," his voice raising with enthusiasm. "I'm contributing my quota like every other American with all the rights and privileges, thereof. I'm excited."
They took the citizenship oath in special ceremonies Jan. 26 at Clay High School, Oregon. Click for full article

January 2007 Update (B)

This is to inform you that these old boys have either updated their information or joined our community.

• Williams, Omotayo (Eric) '49
• Okosun, Tony '69
• Owarume, Eric '72
• Emuobor, Joe '73
• Olise, Lucky '73
• Omoruwa, Cecil '73
• Ossai, Idegbe-Justin '73
• Ogashi, Michael '74
• Okpodu, Ovie '76
• Emareyo, Ufuoma '83

Please join in welcoming them!

January 2007 Update

PRESIDENT'S NEW YEAR GREETINGS

HAPPY NEW YEAR

On behalf of the Executive of Government College Old Boys' Association in the Americas (GCU-OBA-AMERICAS), I wish all members of the association a very happy and prosperous New Year.

Many of you are aware that the old boys in Texas have initiated steps towards hosting our 2007 reunion in their state. I hope you all have submitted your preferred weekend in August already. If you have not done so, please send the information soon. We are looking forward to another exciting reunion.

We are encouraged that many new members joined the association during the year. We hope that you will all come to the reunion in Texas.

In 2006, the association has not been as active as it was in previous years. Especially when compared to 2005, when we had our second reunion in Orlando, Florida. Most of the decisions reached at the Orlando reunion have not been carried out. We agreed to increase our annual dues to $100. Only a handful of members have paid their dues for 2006. Although members are expected to meet their obligation, to be fair, they have not been reminded as frequently as we used to. So members please pay up your annual dues for 2006 soon; and do not forget the dues for 2007.

The year 2006 brought some sad memories. We lost tragically our very active member, Dr. Patrick Emenike at a young age. Our members, Efejuku, Sido and Ajueyitsi lost their parents. We also lost some old boys in Nigeria such as Yemi Sawyerr, the younger brother of Olu Sawyerr, our active member, and Retired Rear Admiral Joe Oguna, the president of the Lagos branch and a classmate of mine. We pray that the New Year brings all affected members comfort and peace and that we do not experience such tragedies soon.

Finally, the president is going on his annual visit home early January and will definitely visit our beloved Alma Mater. He plans to discuss our financial commitment to the School in regards to the one million naira pledged to the Endowment Fund. He will also finalize arrangements with the home association regarding the funds we sent to honor Dr. Emenike's memory. He will report on these and other financial matters when he returns in March.

Once more, I wish all families of GCU-OBA-AMERICAS a happy, healthy and prosperous 2007.

Dr. Ogbemi O. Omatete '53 President.

December 31, 2006

October 2006 Update

GCUOBA LAGOS BRANCH MEETING IN NOVEMBER 2006

From: okosmozimo@yahoo.com
Sent: Fri, 20 Oct 2006 5:31 AM
Subject: GCUOBA LAGOS BRANCH MEETING IN NOVEMBER 2006

Dear Mariners,

This is to inform you that the next Lagos Branch meeting will hold as follows;

Date: Sunday, 12th November, 2006

Venue: Ethiope Hall, Federal Palace Hotels, Victoria Island.

Time: 2.30pm Propmt.

Host: Chief J.J. Akpieyi

Agenda
1. Opening Prayers
2. School Song
3. Minutes of Last Meeting.
4. Amendments/Adoption
5. Matters Arising
6. Report on visit to the School by the Exco
7. GCU Vision 2026
8. Finance/Investments/Update on contributions
9. AOB
10. Next Meeting
11. Closing.

Kindly spread the news amongst Old Boys and please endeavor to pay your Annual dues (#6,000.00) into our “GCUOBA Diamond Jubilee Account Number 00720550000373 in any UBA Bank near you. Keep the deposit slips as it would be required before receipts are issued.

Yours sincerely,

Okosubide Mozimo
Secretary
GCUOBA, Lagos branch

September 2006 Update

MARRIAGE OF OUR DAUGHTER, MAVI EKPERE

Fellow mariners are invited to the marriage ceremonies of our daughter.

The marriage is going to be two-fold. The first one is a Traditional Marriage, which will be slightly modified since the groom is an American. This will take place in Omaha, Nebraska at the Conference Center of Howard Johnson Hotel, 3650 South 72nd Street, Omaha NE 68124, off Interstate 80 at 4:30 pm, the seventh of October 2006.

Rooms have been subsidized. Just mention Mavi's marriage.
Tel: (402)397-3700, (800)440-4640

The Church wedding will take place at The Atrium, 139 Norcross-Tucker Road, Norcross, Georgia in the Atlanta area. Tel:(770)840-9949.

The ceremony starts at 5:30 pm on Sunday, the fifth of November 2006. Both ceremonies will be followed by reception immediately

The closest hotel with a reasonable price is the Residence Inn Marriott.
I look forward to a good time for those who can make it.

Mavi is next to dad (front right).

Thanks. S.M. Ekpere

August 2006 Update

President's Report Circulated

The President's report to members for the 2005/2006 year has been circulated to all registered Old Boys. It contains the financial position of the Association, detailed accounting of the 2005 Reunion, updated pledge lists for the GCU Endowment and Dr. Emenike's funeral.

If you have not received your copy, please contact the Secretary Efe Oputu
(efeo@excite.com)

Regards,
Oputu '72

This is to inform you that these old boys have either updated their information or joined our community.

• Ekpere, Ena '62
• Akerele, Olaseinde '60
• Ahweyevu, Charles '69
• Okhah, Kester '70
• Nakpodia, Shokare '71
• Atiyota I, Ese '73
• Enu-Enwosu, Michael '74
• Ogu, Kenneth '76
• Dundun, Herbert '76
• Ogbebor, Emmanuel '78
• Asekomhe, Felix '79
• Odili-Idiagbor, Victor '80
• Avanoma, Onome '84
• Elum, Erhuvwu '85
• Abiri, Stanley '86
• Akpobome, Oduma '96

Please join in welcoming them!

Oputu '72
Secretary

November 2005 Update

A. DTSG, Old Boys Disagree On Schools' Return to Proprietors

Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, yesterday stated that the government will return schools, including Government College, Ughelli (GCU) to their original owners or interested groups by 2007.

However, in a swift response to Uduaghan's allusion to the fact such schools might be self-sustaining, Mr. Gamaliel Onosode, President-General of the old boys association of the school, said it was not proper for government to withdraw totally from funding some of the best institutions. Click here to read full article.

B. Pledges made at 2005 Reunion

From: Efe Oputu (Secretary)

Fellow Mariners,

Attached is an update on pledges made at the Florida Reunion (editor's note: contact the secretary if you need a copy).

The school would be grateful if all outstanding pledges are redeemed by Novemeber 30. Please call/email the treasurer, Kome Onokpise to make arrangements.

Also, those that did not pledge because they were not in Orlando, may contribute the cause by sending such contributions to Kome (o.onokpise@worldnet.att.net).

Regards,
Oputu, Efe (Secretary)
Oleh/Agbarho '72

September 2005 Update

GOVERNMENT COLLEGE UGHELLI @ 60
DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION

N250 MILLION FUND-RAISING DINNER
It is indeed with great pleasure that we share with you the joy of witnessing the 60th Anniversary of our College. To grow to be 60 years old is no mean feat for a man, especially in Africa where life expectancy is no where near that age. In the life of an institution like Government College Ughelli, it should be the beginning of growth and development.
To read more, click here.

2005 Reunion

This reunion was held on August 12 - 14, 2005 in Orlando, Florida at the Wyndham Resort.

These and other photos can be downloaded and printed; send an email to Dagana (bendagana@comcast.net) to get more details.

The 2005 Reunion report has been emailed to all members. You may request a copy from the Association's secretary (efeo@excite.com).

Highlights from reunion:

1) A total of 34 old boys attended (many with families); three came from Nigeria and one from UK.
2) A one-man ad-hoc committee was set up to gather information on how best to address our non-profit status.
3) An amendment was made to the Constitution to allow any mariner to join the association as long as his place of residency does not have an established old boy association.
4) The body resolved to raising One (1) Million Naira by December 31, 2005 for the improvement of GCU; approximately $8000.00 was pledged at the reunion.
5) Ejaife and Oputu were elected Vice President and Secretary, respectively taking over from Thomopulos and Efejuku.
6) The "Keep the ship sailing" award was established as a way of encouraging member participation; this year's award went to Dr. O. O. Omatete.
7) Professional Photographs were taken during the banquet, including "decade" group shots.
8) The next reunions will be held in Texas (2007) and Toronto (2009).

Those who attended:

Bestman Efejuku '69

Pledges made at reunion:

Fellow Mariners:

The list of pledges made at the 2005 reunion for GCU assistance has been sent to all mariners. Please let us know if you haven't seen it or if there are any discrepancies so we can correct. Someone paid $20.00 at the banquet toward his pledge... let me know who you are.

Those that did not attend can send their pledges via email to me (o.onokpise@worldnet.att.net).

Please note that all pledges must be redeemed by December 31, 2005... let us continue to keep the ship sailing!

Kome Onokpise (Anthony Anyisire, '64)
Treasurer

July 2005 Update

A. Report on Visit to GCU (2005)

Observations During the Visits to Government College

There are two Principals. One for the junior school, JSS I - III, and another for senior school, SSS I - III. This raises the question, are there one or two schools at GCU? This has been reported earlier: School House, which was destroyed when a tree fell on it, has been rebuilt. This was gratifying to me and I am sure, to all old boys of the "House". Appian Way, the main road into GCU is in very bad shape with huge potholes and poor drainage. The trees that line it and beautify it are now overgrown and need to be trimmed or even replaced. Most of the administration buildings need new paint. The library needs all types of books.

William Morhefe Obele Memorial Shield was finally presented to a winner, Emmanuel Okorafor, on Founder's Day, January 19, 2005

Click for full report including the William Morhefe Obele Memorial Shield - Government College Ughelli Scholar-Athlete Award.

Odekhiren Amaize (Ode)

This is to introduce a classical musician who is a fellow mariner... he started singing at GCU and now lives in Taiwan:

Odekhiren Amaize (Ode), a naturalized U.S. citizen, was born in 1953 in Nigeria. While obtaining a professional Diploma in Art and Design at Yaba College of Technology in Lagos, he was a member of the Steve Rhodes Voices, performing in Africa, England, and Wales.

He began formal vocal training at the University of Texas at Austin under the tutelage of Michael Trimble and Jess Walters during which he obtained an interdisciplinary doctorate in Advertising, Marketing, and Educational Psychology. Ode holds a Diploma in Voice from Indiana University School of Music at Bloomington, where he spent four years studying under Camilla Williams and Margaret Harshaw. He also holds a post-graduate Certificate in Solo Song Recital (under the direction of Victor I. Yushmanov) from the St. Petersburg State Conservatory named after N. Rimsky-Korsakov.

Click here for more on Ode's bio and music!

June 2005 Update

A. Updated information and new members

A number of old boys have either updated their information or joined us in the past few months:

• Okpaku, Joe '55
• Okpaku, Mike '56
• Osah, Chris '56
• Akporiaye, Emmanuel '64
• Arigbe, Bobson '70
• Akpoguma, Andrew '70
• Onohwosa, Godwin '74
• Anighoro, Fidelis '84

Please join in welcoming them!

February 2005 Update

A. GCU-OBA 2005 Reunion

B. New Members

A number of old boys have joined us in the past few months:

• Barrow, Robert '60 (HSC)
• Ewoterai, Odih '68 (HSC)
• Ovuede, Monday '72
• Omonode, Rex '73
• Oke, Okemona '74
• Nwakudu, Uche '76
• Omoyeni, Robert '81
• Omuyeh, Fidelis '84
• Emareyo, Akpotu '87
  

Please join in welcoming them!

C. Annual Dues

The treasurer's update on 2004 annual dues is not posted here, but be aware that only 20 out of a possible 76 have paid their 2004 dues. We are already in 2005, so please send your dues of $100.00 immediately to:

Dr. Kome Onokpise
2810 Kennesan Place
Tallahassee, FL 32303

September 2004 Update

Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers honors Dr. O.O.Omatete

A Profile of Dr. Oristegbemi O. Omatete
Edited By Dr. Timothy O. Odi, Secretary NSChE, USA Branch

Congratulations to Dr. O. O. Omatete (Omats) who recently retired after over three decades of distinguished, active career in chemical engineering practice in both industry and academia in Nigeria and USA.