By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Old Grammarians Society (OGS), the alumni body of Nigeria’s oldest secondary school, CMS Grammar School, Lagos, has inaugurated a new executive committee with a charge to strengthen unity, uphold integrity, and sustain the school’s tradition of excellence.
Speaking after the inauguration and presentation of the society’s certificate of incorporation, the Sole Administrator of OGS, Sir Oluwagbemiga Olagbaiye, FCA, said the new executives have the responsibility of deepening social harmony and driving developmental initiatives that reflect the society’s long-standing vision.
“Our vision is to maintain social harmony among members through engagement, seminars, and conferences,” Olagbaiye said.
“CMS Grammar School has always led by example in giving back to society. Many of the school’s buildings were funded or facilitated by Old Grammarians, either individually or collectively.”
He emphasized that leadership renewal remains key to the association’s progress, noting that the OGS conducts elections every two years to ensure continuity and accountability.
In his goodwill message, a member of the OGS Board of Directors, High Chief Bandele Babalola, urged the new executive team to prioritise reconciliation and collaboration.
He cautioned against internal divisions and stressed that peace and unity were crucial for progress.
“The CMS Grammar School must remain one family,” Babalola said.
“The new executives must work with all stakeholders to raise the school beyond its current state. This role demands commitment, and the first task before them is to make peace with everyone in the society and continue the legacy of this historic institution.”
On his part, the newly elected President of the OGS, Dr. Dipe Arigbede, pledged to build on the association’s legacy by introducing innovative programmes to empower members and strengthen alumni engagement.
He announced plans to establish a new OGS secretariat, invest in real estate projects, and launch training, skill acquisition, and mentorship initiatives.
“We are inheriting a 74-year-old legacy,” Arigbede said. “Our focus is to bring together all 54 alumni sets, revive intergenerational collaboration, and harness the experiences of older members to inspire younger ones. We’ll use the brand and reputation of CMS Grammar School to empower our members and give back to our alma mater.”
The event reaffirmed OGS’s enduring commitment to education, excellence, and community service.
