By Danjuma Amodu
The Government Secondary School, Okpo Old Students Association has renewed its call for members to register and pay annual dues, while launching fresh appeals for donations toward two major interventions — a light project scheduled for September 2026 and the provision of stationery for current students.
In a statement posted on the Association’s WhatsApp platform, Secretary John Salifu Ojononugwa disclosed that contributions for the proposed light project would now commence in June 2026, after the initial May take-off was stalled by unforeseen circumstances.
“There is a renewed call to encourage all members to donate generously toward its successful execution,” Ojononugwa said.
Alongside the light project, the Association is mobilizing funds for the immediate supply of stationery and other writing materials to students at all levels. The intervention package will provide 12 80-leaves notebooks per student, among other essential items.
Ojononugwa added that donation channels have been circulated to members via the Association’s WhatsApp platform. Interested members can contact the Secretary for details.
Over the years, the GSS Okpo Old Boys Association has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the institution, including efforts that enabled the school to resume academic sessions after a prolonged delay. Its sustained interventions have helped bridge funding gaps, improve infrastructure, and uphold academic standards.
Salifu stressed that payment of annual dues remains critical for members to retain bonafide membership status and to enable the Association to plan and execute projects effectively.
“The continued support of our members ensures that GSS Okpo maintains its legacy and keeps impacting lives. We cannot do it without the collective commitment of all old students,” he said.
The GSS Okpo appeal reflects a global alumni tradition dating back to the world’s first organized alumni body formed at Williams College, USA, in 1821 to “preserve the influence of the institution.” In Nigeria, platforms such as BusinessDay’s Aviz Alumni Network show how old students drive funding, mentorship, and advocacy for their alma maters.
The principle established by the first alumni body at Williams College in 1821 still holds: schools endure when their old students stand with them. Our light project and stationery drive are investments in GSS Okpo’s future, not charity. We are calling on all alumni to pay their dues and support these interventions so our alma mater can keep impacting lives.”
