New Leadership for Birch Freeman Old Boys Association
The Birch Freeman Old Boys Association in Lagos State has re-elected a retired Brigadier-General from the Nigerian Army, Anthony Onibasa, as its president for another term. This decision marks a significant step in steering the affairs of the association forward.
Onibasa was officially sworn in on Saturday during the 2026 homecoming ceremony held at the BIFOBA event hall located within the school premises in Surulere. The ceremony also saw the swearing-in of other members of the executive committee.
Key Members of the Executive Committee
The new executive committee includes:
- Olalekan Oshodi as Vice President (School Affairs)
- Lanray Olayinka as Vice President (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 Secretary
- Adebuji Sunday as Public Relations Officer
- Joel Akamagwuma as Internal Auditor
Oath of Office Administered by Legal Practitioner
The oath of office was administered by a legal practitioner, Ade Agunbiade, who emphasized the importance of selfless service and commitment to the growth of the alma mater. He encouraged the new leadership to view their roles as a call to responsibility rather than privilege.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Transition Committee, Denji Okuyiga, advised the incoming executives to adopt an inclusive leadership style. He said, “I implore the team coming in not to see their election as a winner-takes-all situation. They should embrace everyone as long as they are old students of the school who, by virtue of that, are qualified to be members of this association.”
Onibasa’s Vision for the Association
In his acceptance speech, Onibasa expressed appreciation to the members for the renewed confidence and assured that his administration would build upon previous achievements while fostering unity and stronger engagement among members.
He stated, “The first time I stepped into leadership in BIFOBA, I stated that associations essentially exist to promote mutual support and enhance networking. In the case of an old boys’ association, it is also about giving back to the alma mater in appreciation of the values that shaped us.”
Achievements During Onibasa’s First Tenure
Highlighting projects executed by the association during his first tenure, Onibasa listed several key initiatives:
- Facilitation of tutorial programmes to prepare students for UTME, WAEC and NECO examinations
- Renovation of the school auditorium
- Restoration of 13 classrooms in the senior school
- Provision of over 200 seats and benches
- Installation of 26 white marker boards
- Provision of ceiling fans
- Repainting of classroom exteriors
- Repairs of the school’s water supply system
- Installation of solar-powered street lights
- Construction of an internal road within the school
“I feel grateful for the opportunity to serve. I thank the old boys for reposing confidence in me to lead at this crucial time in the history of the association.”
Commendations and Encouragement
Earlier, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Balogun, who is also a member of the association, commissioned the road within the school and urged members to remain united in their efforts to develop the institution.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the reunion planning committee, Olugbemi Soyinka, described the gathering as more than a reunion, noting that it symbolized shared history, unity, and enduring bonds among members.
He said, “Today is not just a gathering, but a celebration of our shared history, unity and the enduring bond that connects us all. Though time and distance may separate us, the values and experiences we share remain strong.”
Similarly, the Secretary of the planning committee, Adelani Adekunle, urged members to sustain the renewed spirit of cooperation and commitment.
He said, “As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, may we continue to uphold the values of unity, transparency and collective progress. Let this renewed spirit guide our actions as we work together to build a stronger and more vibrant association.”
A Platform for Networking and Reflection
The event drew old students from different generations, serving as a platform for networking, reflection, and renewed commitment to the development of the school. It highlighted the enduring legacy of the Birch Freeman Old Boys Association and the importance of community involvement in educational institutions.
