GCI OLD BOYS 85′ SET CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF BROTHERHOOD, REFLECTION
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
It was an evening filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and renewed purpose as the 1985 set of Government College Ibadan (GCI) marked their 40-year reunion in grand style. The event, themed “The Paths Diverged Reflection and Renewal,” brought together old classmates who shared memories, laughter, and reflections on life’s journey since leaving the historic college four decades ago.
In his keynote address titled “The Paths Diverged,” Mofolusho Fagbeja, one of the alumni reflected on how members of the set have taken different directions in life becoming doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, artists, and scholars yet remain united by the enduring values instilled in them at “The Rock,” as GCI is fondly called.
“No matter the path taken, every journey has been valid,” he said. “What binds us is not our titles or wealth, but the resilience, loyalty, and curiosity we learned from The Rock.”
The speech also reframed turning fifty as “The Half-Century Mark” a time for wisdom, perspective, and intentional living.
“At fifty, we are not winding down; we are gearing up. This is our Third Act the most intentional and liberated chapter yet.”
As the alumni reflected on the years ahead, the keynote described this stage of life as “The Great Unburdening” a period where career pressures ease and life’s deeper meaning takes center stage.
“Success is no longer about accumulation,” the speaker noted. “It’s about contribution, health, joy, and relationships choosing purpose over recognition.”
Three key investments were highlighted for the journey ahead:
Investment in Presence spending quality time with family, friends, and passions.
Investment in Curiosity continual learning and exploration.
Investment in Community mentoring, volunteering, and giving back to GCI and society.
In his welcome speech, Chairman of the 1985 set, Mr. Olubukola Adegbola Alabi, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, the organizing committee, and fellow old boys for their unwavering support in making the 40th anniversary a reality.
“Today is not just another gathering, it is a commemoration of 40 years since we first walked through the gates of GCI as young boys, full of dreams, curiosity, and innocence,” he said. “Four decades later, we stand here as accomplished men, still bound by the same brotherhood that began in 1985.”
The chairman led attendees in a minute of silence in honor of departed classmates and acknowledged the collective efforts that made the legacy project possible.
“Forty years is no small feat,” he continued. “I want to sincerely appreciate everyone who has contributed both openly and quietly. Some of you have given, and many have even out-given. Your sacrifices will never go unnoticed.”
He also commended the fundraising committee led by Folarin Familusi for their exceptional work, and praised the executive committee for their sleepless nights and dedication.
“Leading the ’85 set is like governing a small country,” he said with a smile. “But together, we’ve proven that no mountain is insurmountable if you believe.”
Alabi emphasized the importance of giving back to their alma mater.
“GCI gave us so much during our formative years discipline, education, lifelong friendships, and a platform on which we still stand today. Now it is our turn to give back. The legacy project is not just a structure; it is a symbol of our gratitude, our responsibility, and our investment in the future.”
He concluded with a challenge: “Let this 40th anniversary mark the beginning of a new chapter of greater unity, deeper commitment, and more impactful contributions. History will one day ask what we did with the privilege of being members of the great ’85 set. Let our answer be clear: we came, we gave, we built, and we left a legacy.”
The chairman also congratulated the awardees being honored for their dedication and service, and thanked invited guests and families for celebrating with the set.
“To my brothers, the great members of the ’85 set, thank you for giving me the privilege to serve as your leader. Here’s to the GCI ’85 set at 40 a set of excellence, resilience, and legacy. May we continue to shine, and may history forever remember our names.”
The reunion was described not just as a celebration, but as a reminder of enduring friendship and shared heritage. Attendees were encouraged to reconnect with old classmates and strengthen bonds that have stood the test of time.
The highlight of the evening was the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake a moment symbolizing unity, shared history, and the collective journey of the 1985 set. Members stood side by side, smiling and singing the college anthem, as they celebrated four decades of unbroken brotherhood.
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