By Robinson Ere Erebi
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!It was a nostalgic homecoming for many alumni as members of the Government Secondary School Okporowo-Ogbakiri (GOSSO) Old Students Association gathered in Ogbakiri, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, for their May meeting held on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
For several attendees, including this reporter, the visit rekindled memories of their school days, while also highlighting the transformation of the host community over the years. Once a quiet rural enclave, the Ogbakiri clan—comprising Okporowo, Rumuoro, and Oduoha—has evolved into a semi-urban area marked by modern buildings and improved road networks.
The meeting, which ended on a convivial note with food and drinks, provided an opportunity for old students to reconnect after decades apart and discuss ways to give back to their alma mater.
Speaking after the meeting, President of the association, Prof. Vincent Asuru, described the group as a vibrant network of individuals committed to supporting the school and one another.
“The association is a voluntary body of like-minded people—men and women of goodwill—who are willing to reconnect with old friends and contribute meaningfully to the development of our school and society,” he said.
Prof. Asuru, who assumed office about a month ago, noted that the association had already made tangible contributions.
“This is my first month in office, but just last week, we donated 20 dual desks to the school. We intend to continue making such impacts,” he stated.
He called on all former students of GOSSO to join the association’s efforts.
“Let us come together as brothers and sisters to improve our school. It is our way of giving back to society what we have received, even if it is just a little,” he added.
On funding, Prof. Asuru disclosed that the association currently relies on internal contributions but hopes to expand its support base.
“So far, we have not received support from the government or NGOs. However, we plan to reach out to them and other organizations that share our vision of restoring the school to its former status as a top-choice institution,” he said.
Also speaking, Vice President of the association, Chief (Dr.) Nchelem Elenwo, emphasized the importance of regular interaction among members.
“This is a gathering of those who attended Government Secondary School, Okporowo-Ogbakiri. We meet monthly to reconnect, interact, and contribute to the development of our alma mater,” he said.
He highlighted recent interventions by the association.
“We may not have everyone yet, but we are doing our best. Recently, we donated 20 dual desks, provided chairs and writing materials, and even renovated the school’s borehole,” he noted.
On government support, Elenwo expressed optimism.
“For now, there is none, but we are hopeful. We plan to approach UBEC in 2026, and they have indicated willingness to include us in their budget,” he added.
Prof. Samuel Otamiri described the reunion as both refreshing and therapeutic.
“This gathering is like medicine—it helps us relax and even live longer. We come here to relive old memories and reconnect with classmates, both day students and boarders,” he said.
He urged other alumni to identify with the association.
A former President of the association, Associate Prof. James Neminebor, also reflected on the significance of reunions and the enduring bond among former students.
“There is joy in reuniting with your old secondary school mates. It has been 47 years since I left Ogbakiri, and visiting the school again was deeply fulfilling,” he said.
He noted how perceptions change over time.
“As children, the school seemed vast, but seeing it now, it appears smaller. That is life. The important thing is that the school still exists and continues to serve the community,” he added.
Neminebor expressed pride in the association’s legacy and the continuity of leadership.
“From the pioneer president, Prof. Bernard Onuegbu, to successive leaders, including my tenure in the 1980s, the association has grown steadily. I am pleased with the efforts of the current executives,” he said.
He also recalled his tenure fondly.
“I was nicknamed the ‘International President’ because I extended the association’s reach beyond Nigeria, connecting with members in countries like Italy and Canada and encouraging their participation,” he explained.
The meeting underscored the enduring bond among alumni and their shared commitment to revitalizing GOSSO, ensuring it regains its place as a leading educational institution in Rivers State.
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