Connections v1.1

C ec ioNN T NSIGSOSANA
WWW.IGSOSANA.ORG AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

N RAL E IGHN
A
20 18

O
RTH CAROLI

TOWARDS A CENTER

OF EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE
EDUCATION BY 2023

MOUNTAINEERS AND GUESTS

WELCOME TO THE

11TH ANNUAL

IGSOSANA CONVENTION

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

DR. & MRS. YINKA OKUWOGA

ON BEHALF OF THE 70/74 CLASS-SET

~ DEO ET PATRIAE!~

Welcome toRaleigh 2018
I t is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to the 11th Annual
IGSOSANA Convention in Raleigh, North Carolina. The fact that
many of you traveled very long distances to be at this convention,
attests to the importance of this Association (and its mission) to
every one of us here present. Our love for our Alma Mater, the school
that nurtured each one of us cannot be overemphasized. I would

like to thank members of the Executive (both past and present) for

the confidence bestowed upon the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).

Our committee was charged with the tumultuous task of making the

Raleigh Convention, the most welcoming, the most memorable, and

in the words of Dr. Okuwoga “the mother of all conventions”. We the

members of the committee went to work. After tirelessly working

together, numerous meetings, and sometimes trips from Virginia LOCAL
to Raleigh, and many constructive criticisms, I am proud to say we

have delivered. My immense thanks to every member of the LOC for ORGANISING
their labor of love and for successfully putting this together. May

God richly reward you all. COMMITTEE (LOC)
Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is part of the Triad,
MEMBERS
(Raleigh-Durham and Chapel Hill) popularly known as the
Research Triangle Park (RTP). The area is home to the first

planned Research Park in the USA and one of the largest in the

world. The three major universities in the Triangle are Duke Dotun Olagoke
University, NC State University and University of North Chairman
Carolina. North Carolina is widely known for being the “first in

flight”, as the Wright brothers soared into history as inventors Tosin Odumosu
of the first successful airplane on December 17, 1903 at Kitty

Hawk, North Carolina. Other areas of note are, Fort Bragg Wunmi Awokoya | Demola Salami
(the largest military installation in the world) and Biltmore

Estate (the largest privately-owned house in the USA— Arin Ladipo | Kayode Ayankoya
10.86sq miles). These areas are located about 3hrs drive

away. Hopefully, you will all take time to visit some of the Femi Olulenu | Tayo Ogundipe
many places of interest in the Triangle area.

Once again, I say a big thank you to the local committee
members and the Executive members for all their
contributions. Finally, many thanks go to my wife Joyce
who has supported me through all this.

Mountaineers, we have a busy agenda for the next few
days. Let us set ourselves to the task ahead of us, with
confidence and determination to fulfil our obligations
to our Alma Mater. Welcome to Raleigh. Enjoy your
stay. God bless you, God bless our school and God
bless our fatherland.

Deo et Patriae.

Oladotun O. Olagoke
LOC Chairman
IGSOSANA 2018 Raleigh Convention

{ CTHE CONNECTIONS

BROCHURE
BROCHURE PUBLISHER
CREATIVE DIRECTORIGSOSA North America
Mrs. Ola Olafunmiloye
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Yinka Okuwoga
Dr. Yinka Okuwoga
Dr. Tosin OdumosuMANAGING EDITOR
Dr. Gboyega OsinbowaleMrs. Ola Olafunmiloye
Mr. Dotun Olagoke
Mr. Soji AdeyemiASSOCIATE EDITORS
Chief Kola Thomas
WRITERS
Mrs Ola OlafunmiloyeChief Mrs. Temitayo Thomas
Prof. Femi Taiwo
Chief Mrs. Temitayo ThomasPROOF READERS
Debby Mayne Yinka Omole, Esq.
Dr. Gboyega Osinbowale
PRODUCTION Dr. Tosin Odumosu
Dr. Tosin Odumosu
}Otunba Kunle Omiyale

The IGSOSANA CONNECTIONS Magazine is an annual publication of Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association -
North America Chapter commemorating the Annual Convention of the organization and documenting efforts that utilize
the power of global connections to tap into new opportunities benefiting our Alma Mater. It honors and celebrates fellow
old students, teachers; and connects generations of students into a coherent symphony of proud scholastic development that
lifts the school to greater national and global recognition; and Alumni to higher prominence in career, private and public

service and topmost personal achievements. It encourages members to always think about “giving back to the school.”

CONNECT & THRIVE I ENGAGE & NETWORK

IGSOSANA CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE © 2018

DECLARATION OF LOYALTY TO THE SCHOOL

I pledge myself to remember that
At all times and in all places,
I am the representative of
Ibadan Grammar School
I will therefore strive to refrain
From any word or deed which may
Bring discredit upon the school
I will endeavour to be always loyal
To the staff and to all school fellows.
I would ever seek to be worthy of the school;
To add to its lustre, and
To cherish its highest traditions:
I will try to play my part in
Transmitting them to others, not less
But greater and better than they were
Transmitted to me.
SO HELP ME GOD: AMEN.

CONNECTIONS |5| W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

CONTENTS

14 Vision & Commitment & Resolve 28 Chief Ayo Labiyi Award
IGSOSANA President’s Address For Distinguished Professional Accomplishments
Dr. Adeyinka Okuwoga
30 Dr. Jonathan French Awards
16 Aderibigbe Ade Adedeji, SAN For Future Scientists / The Young Shall Grow
Keynote Speaker Profile
32 Our Appreciation & Updates
20 Goodwill Message From the Desk of the Senior School Principal
Venerable Muyiwa Oyewole, National President,
IGSOSA 43 Goodwill Message
From Mr. Hakeem Suara, Chairman, IGSOSA Lagos
22 Strategic & Sustainable Projects For IGS Chapter
Mr. Goodie Ibru’s Message
45 5 WhatsApp Group Chat Guide
24 Bishop Alexander Babatunde Akinyele WhatsApp is wonderful. It simplifies conversations
For Pioneer Leadership and makes life that much easier and better

26 Archdeacon Oladipo Alayande Award 48 To Stress or Not to Stress
For Exemplary Public Service Stress is unavoidable. The key is learning how to cope
with it.

CONNECTIONS |6| W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

52 Raleigh & Durham Ibadan Grammar School is a co-ed
Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina. It’s Anglican high school open to students
known for its universities, including North Carolina of all backgrounds and faiths. The
State University... Get to know this host city school was founded on March 31st
1913 on a historical day in Ibadan
54 Importance of Email Etiquette by Bishop Alexander Babatunde
Have you ever received email that left you wondering Akinyele. It was the first secondary
about the person who sent it? Or worse, have you ever school for Ibadan. At the heart and
sent an email that you later regretted? soul of Ibadan Grammar School is a
commitment to developing the fullest
58 IGSOSANA 2018 Projects potential of every student in learning,
Leveraging technology, IGSOSANA launched a series faith, and leadership.
of projects in 2018. Explore and get involved.
Deo et Patriae
62 STEM at IGS Fun Olorun Ati Ile Wa
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
education initiative by IGSOSANA

CONNECTIONS |7| W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

SCHOOL SONGS

Arise

all Sons of the Praise God that patriots of old
Mountaineer To work did put their hand
Sing praises And for the love of Fatherland
to the Lord Their mites did not withold
And shout Brothers, sisters, now justify
for joy with The talking drums of old
one accord The hope of those who laboured long
All boys from Deo et Patriae .
far and near Illustrious sons who rose to fame
Remember now The scions of their days
the glorious days Brought glory and unfading praise
At Oke-Are’s gates To Alma Mater’s name
Whence we With these in thankful voice we sing
came and first Our hymn of jubilee
sang our praise Raise upon high our joyful glee
Deo et Patriae. Deo et Patriae.

CONNECTIONS |8| Composed by G.A. Adeyemo
(Former Tutor)

THERE IS SUNSHINE

There is sunshine in my soul today
All glorious and bright
There is light in every smiling face
For Jesus is my light
O! There is sunshine
Blessed sunshine
When the peaceful happy moments roll
When Jesus shows His smiling face
There is sunshine in my soul

W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

AMERICAN NATIONAL CANADIAN NATIONAL NIGERIAN NATIONAL
ANTHEM
ANTHEM ANTHEM

Oh, say can you see O Canada! Arise, O compatriots,
By the dawns early light Our home and native land! Nigeria’s call obey
What so proudly we hail’d True patriot love in To serve
At the twilights last gleaming? all thy sons command. Our Fatherland
Who’s broad striped With glowing hearts With love and
and bright stars we see thee rise, Strength and faith.
Through the perilous fight The True North The labour of
O’er the ramparts we watched strong and free! our heroes past
Were so gallantly streaming? From far and wide, Shall never be in vain.
And the rocket’s red glare! O Canada, we stand To serve with
The bombs bursting in air! on guard for thee. heart and might,
Gave proof through the night God keep our land One nation bound
That our flag was still there. glorious and free! in freedom,
Oh, say does that star spangled O Canada, we stand peace and unity.
banner yet wave on guard for thee.
O’er the land of the free O Canada, we stand
And the home of the brave? on guard for thee.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 8/30THURSDAY

4:00PM - 6:00PM Arrival of Executives &
6:00PM - 8:00PM Planning Committee
8:00PM - 9:00PM Members
Dinner & Joint Conven-
tion Review

Executive/LOC Meeting

FRIDAY 8/31

6:00AM - 6:30AM Grass Cutting
7:00AM - 9:00AM Supervised by Dr. French
9:30AM - 11:00AM Breakfast
10:00AM - 12:00PM
Executive/LOC Meeting
12:00PM - 3:30PM
Arrival of Delegates &
5:30PM - 7:00PM Guests
Location:
Holiday Inn City Tour
7:00PM - 8:00PM Duke University
Location: Duke Gardens
Holiday Inn Reasearh Triangle Park

8:00PM - 11:00PM Plenary Session 1
Location: Health Talks
Holiday Inn
Moderator:
Dr. Osinbowale

Plenary Session 2
Business Talks
Panel Of Speakers

Moderator:
Ms. Funke Ogunsanya

Obu Night
“A Night of Fun &
Nostalgia”
(Sing Song, Fabu
Obu Court of Justice)

9/1SATURDAY

GENERAL MEETING GALA NIGHT

8:00AM - 11:30AM Concourse A 6:30PM - 12:00AM Concourse A

Breakfast - 7:00AM - 8:00AM “A Night of Inspiration & Goal-Setting”
Spouse Program - 9:00AM - 1:00PM
School Song and Invocation - IGS Liturgy Cocktails: 6:30PM - 7:00PM
Introduction and Welcome Address Opening Prayer and Introduction of MC
- Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Recognitions (Local Organizing Committee)
Minutes of the 2017 (10th) Convention Introduction of Current IGSOSA/IGSOSANA Executives
- Gen. Secretary: Mrs. Olafunmiloye Introduction of Special Guest & Address
Update on IGSOSANA /President’s Report Singing of National Anthems and School Anthem
School Update / IGS - Center of Excellence IGSOSANA’s Presidential Address
- President: Dr. Yinka Okuwoga National IGSOSA’s Presidential Address
Outline Budget 2018 /19 Keynote Speaker - Aderibigbe Adedeji, SAN
Financial Report Dinner & Donations
Review of By-laws Awards
Next Convention Banner Roll-up Relay to Atlanta, GA
Any other matters Vote of Thanks
Vote of Thanks and Adjournment - (LOC) Closing Prayer
Closing Song & Prayers Briefing on Sunday’s Thanksgiving Service
Group Photos Dance! Dance!! Dance!!!
New Members Welcome with Executive

9/2SUNDAY

7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Breakfast & Checkout
9:15AM - 9:30 AM Group Photo/Bus Leaves (9:50am)
10:30 AM - 12 NOON Thanksgiving Worship Service
Episcopal Church of the Nativity
12 NOON - 1:00 PM 8849 Ray Road
Raleigh, NC 27613
Phone (919) 846-8338

Led by Ven. Muyiwa Oyewole
Luncheon
Group Photos
Feedback from New Members

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IBADAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATION

OF NORTH AMERICA

IGSOSANA

The mission of IGSOSANA is to foster a lifelong relationship between
our Alma Mater and its old students. Our goal is to offer our alumni a
focal point of support, event coordination and programs.

BY OLA OLAFUNMILOYE - 1974/79 SET

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GSOSANA is made up of old students who For over 11 years, IGSOSANA has been working to restore
make a difference every day. You can the glory of our Alma mater, Ibadan Grammar School.
find them in industry as entrepreneurs, Below are some of the programs we have created on behalf
technologists, medical doctors, social of the current generation of students of IGS.
workers, nurses and in a multitude of other (See Page 42 for more)
occupations. All IGS old students living in
any part of North America are invited to get Science Education
Our main objective is to make IGS a center of excellence
I involved and become a registered member for Science Education in Nigeria vis; Physics, Chemistry,
of our Alumni Association. Biology& Mathematics.

Our Charge: Technology
Our aim is to improve competitiveness in science and
Restore the old glory of Ibadan Grammar technology development through STEM activities and
School. equipping the school with technology. (See Page 62)

We exist to serve our Alma Mater by focusing Infrastructure
on its immediate needs and delivering Our flagship project was to build a 100 capacity Physics
excellent programs and services for the lab for the students at IGS. We completed it and we
benefit of the students and staff. continue to maintain it to date!

We work together as a team. We care for Sports & Educational Clubs
each other. We bring the best of ourselves We support competition at IGS because we believe
with integrity to IGSOSANA. We support one whole-heartedly that it can teach the students
another for the good of our Alma Mater by tremendous life lessons.
always doing the right thing and taking risk
seriously and managing it prudently. Student Development & Incentives
We invest in the students to empower them. We
As a shining light and example to other reward & recognize hard-working students with great
IGSOSA chapters, we are committed to performances in the classroom.
providing high-quality programs; always
challenging ourselves to improve our Teacher Development & Incentives
processes and procedures. Our aim is to be We celebrate the outstanding contributions teachers
proud of everything we do. make by honoring them & by empowering them to
deliver powerful lessons.

IGSOSANA EXECUTIVES

The association is PRESIDENT FINANCIAL SECRETARY
managed by a board of DR. YINKA OKUWOGA MR. DARE OLUGBADE

dedicated volunteers VICE PRESIDENT PUBLICITY SECRETARY
from all walks of life PASTOR MARTY AYO ADEBOWALE OTUNBA KUNLE OMIYALE
who are old students.
Their goal is to offer GENERAL SECRETARY WELFARE SECRETARY
MRS. OLAWUNMI OLAFUNMILOYE MRS. OMOWUNMI AWOKOYA
our alumni a focal
point of support, event ASSISTANT SECRETARY SOCIAL SECRETARY
MR. SOJI ADEYEMI MR. AKINLOLU AKINBONI
coordination and
benefits. TREASURER AUDITOR
YINKA OMOLE ESQ. PROF. LEKAN ALLI

CHAIRMAN, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS:
DR. DEJI OJETOLA DR. GBOYEGA OSINBOWALE
MR. BAYO BAKARE

CONNECTIONS | 13 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

VISION, COMMITMENT & RESOLVE
IGSOSANA PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
DR. YINKA OKUWOGA, SN/6139

F ellow Mountaineers, our distinguished guests, ladies and
gentlemen.

I am pleased to welcome you all to the 11th Annual Convention of Ibadan
Grammar School Old Students’ Association North America (IGSOSANA).
It is exciting to be holding this Convention in Oaks City of Raleigh, North

Carolina - the home state of the Wright brothers who invented the first

successful powered aircraft and took flight in Kitty Hawk on December 17,

1903. I extend my special welcome to our guest of honour, a legal luminary, Aderibigbe Ade

Adedeji SAN. And, our ever-present National President, Venerable Muyiwa Oyewole, for his

unrelenting support for IGSOSANA and our Alma mater.

This time last year, Hurricane Harvey pummeled Houston and the Gulf of Mexico; it was
‘touch and go’ as to whether the convention would be held or not. The heroes and heroines
of that convention were those who braved all odds to attend the convention, especially those
who came from outside the USA. My special thanks to our assiduous Houston Convention
LOC Chairman, Jide Labiyi, and the team who mobilized all resources at their disposal to
make the convention a possibility. The lack of running water and the unsteady power supply
at the hotel were real challenges. In all, we were tried and tested, but the resilience and
resolute determination of mountaineers prevailed, culminating in a highly successful and
memorable convention.

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Fellow Mountaineers and our guests, in furtherance in the School. While IGSOSANA is focusing on academic
of our theme for the School, “Towards IGS Centre of excellence for the school, other branches and class sets are
Excellence in Science Education by 2023—Leveraging called upon to focus on other aspects of the challenges, such
Technology”, the 105th Founder’s Day Celebration pre- as security enhancement, provision of sporting facilities,
sented a unique opportunity to showcase and com- and infrastructure development and maintenance. It is said
mission IGSOSANA’s projects, N2.5 Million in total. This that ‘… for every new level of development, there is the need
went towards (1) the official IGS website—ibadangram- for a new level of sacrifice.’ We all need to be focused on the
marschool.org (N1 million) and (2) multimedia and au- goal and be prepared to commit the required resources for
dio-visual equipment (N1.5 Million) such as data pro- a successful outcome.
jectors and microphones installed in the New Physics
Laboratory, the Dr. Mike Adenuga ICT Center, the e-li- The general state of affairs in the school is still precarious,
brary and the Emmanuel Alayande Hall (a mobile sys- with over population, inadequate facilities, a shortage of
tem on a tripod wheel stand). The other projects and teachers and a decline in standards across all facets of
activities supported by IGSOSANA during the course of school life. There are four key challenges that loom large:
the year included N400,000 towards the prize-giving upgrading and maintenance of facilities; handing over
day, and N150,000 towards the Aionian Games. of the school by the government, restoration of a vibrant
boarding system, and finally integration and coordination
The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathemat- of all efforts by the National Executive (NEC), Board of
ics (STEM) initiative remains IGSOSANA’s flagship proj- Trustees (BoT), Governing Boards, Branches and Class-sets.
ect for the School. It was started last year, led by a
STEM Wonders team from Maryland, USA. The scope Fellow Mountaineers, I seize this opportunity to welcome
of the program was scaled up to a new level this year, our new members and the future leaders of this Associa-
with investments in scientific equipment and the estab- tion to this august event. The challenges ahead are gargan-
lishment of an after-school STEM & Robotics Club. The tuan. To achieve leadership success, experience has taught
project was a huge success and has received significant me that you need to embrace three cardinal principles:
positive feedback. Importantly, it also had a direct im- vision, commitment and resolve. These are my greatest
pact on the performance of the school in science sub- discoveries in my three years as President of this great As-
jects in public examinations. To further our aspirations sociation. Providing leadership and achieving the desired
as a branch, we have other projects lined up ahead of results requires unwavering commitment to the objectives
us, namely, the renovation of the chemistry and biolo- set. There are numerous things competing for our atten-
gy laboratories, a Counselling/Career Day for students, tion – our family, job, clubs, church, parties, etc. Despite all
a Train-the-Trainers workshop for science teachers, these, we need to fulfil our commitments. In terms of lead-
and extra-mural tutorials for final year students. ership, our Association is looking for steady hands that can
land the plane.
Fellow Mountaineers, for a more impactful, focused
and targeted approach to improving the standard of In closing, I would like to thank the Local Organizing Com-
science education at the School, the group, under the mittee (LOC), Chairman, Engr. Dotun Olagoke, Dr. Tosin
leadership of Prof Victor Adetimirin, has conducted a Odumosu, Mrs. Wunmi Awokoya, Dr. Demola Salami, Mrs.
survey of the science teachers for their input. The re- Arin Ladipo, Dr. Kayode Ayankoya, and Mr. Tayo Ogundipe
port of the survey highlighted the need for the follow- for an outstanding job in putting this convention together.
ing (i) encouragement of parents to be more involved
in the academic pursuits of their children and purchase Thank you and God Bless!
the necessary textbooks and workbooks for them; (ii) Deo et Patriae!
provision of adequate laboratory facilities; (iii) careful
selection and screening of students admitted to the
school; (iv) reduction of class sizes; and (v) motivation
and support for teachers. These are far-reaching find-
ings requiring the concerted effort of all stakeholders
to achieve transformative and sustainable change.

With social media and Internet connectivity, the world
has become one digital village. We must leverage
these communication networks to share ideas for
the development of IGS through a coordinated and
integrated approach, thus avoiding duplication of
efforts and implementation of sub-standard projects

CONNECTIONS | 15 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

ADERIBIGBE ADE.KADeyEnoDteESJIp, eSaAkeNr

A deribigbe Ade Adedeji was admitted Practice could not have been more intense, commonly infringed commodities on behalf of
to Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan, intriguing and exciting when Ade joined the crème multinational companies like Pfizer, Chemical
Oyo State in January, 1972 and he de la crème of commercial law horned Barristers & & Allied, Nokia, Choo and many others to
enrolled as Student No 6731. The Solicitors in Western House, Broad Street, Lagos, stem the tide of counterfeit and dangerous
circumstances of his admission Nigeria. The significance of practicing from this pharmaceutical products.
was as divine as the impact of that location exposed the young lawyer to the best the These efforts were the precursors to the reform
admission was going to have on his life, career profession had to offer. in seizure of goods proceedings in our court
and vision. In 1992, Ade launched out with his friend, Dayo rules and the consequent power contained
Owotomo to form a Partnership that thrives in NAFDAC Act. Ade Adedeji has written on
The significance of the admission even became till today. In the course of 30 years of active several aspects of commercial law and practice
most pronounced when young Aderibigbe was commercial litigation ranging from Maritime Law, and delivered lectures at many fora including
immediately assigned to the glorious house of Banking & Finance and Intellectual Property Law Nigerian Bar Association Conference,
IREFIN. and Anti-Counterfeiting litigation. International Bar Association Conference,
Ade gradually climbed the ladder of rebounding International Trade Mark Association
Ade finished from Ibadan Grammar School success with equally rewarding achievements in Conference and non the least, The Bar & Bench
and proceeded to The Comprehensive High his area of specialization. Aderibigbe Adedeji has Forum in many States in Nigeria.
School, Ayetoro, Ogun State, for his A levels. prosecuted several highly celebrated commercial In recognition of his contribution to the
In 1979, he was admitted to the University of cases from the High Court to Court of Appeal development of the law and the legal profession,
Lagos, Akoka, Lagos to study Sociology which and to the Supreme Court. In 2010 and 2012, the Aderibigbe Ade. Adedeji, B.Sc, LL.B, LL.M, was
he concluded with Distinction. Against the offer full Bench of the Supreme Court requested Ade. conferred with the highest honour of Senior
by the Faculty of Social Sciences to proceed to Adedeji to address the court on issues of national Advocate of Nigeria by the Chief Justice of
study for his Masters Degree in Sociology, commercial interest as an “amicus curiae”. These Nigeria.
Ade took a strategic decision to open a new invitations were informed by the recognition by Ade sits on the board of many companies and
chapter by applying to study Law as a second the highest court in the country of the proficiency is currently the group chairman of the board
degree. His fascination for commercial law of this learned fellow. Most of his cases are widely of Electronic Payplus Nigeria and chairman of
informed his decision to return for a Master reported. Much earlier in the early nineties as a board of ATIVO Limited.
degree in Commercial Law with special bias in young lawyer with other colleagues, Ade through Ade is married to Abiola [Nee Asseez] also a
Securitization in loan transactions and land law. hard work had infused into Nigerian jurisprudence lawyer. They are blessed with 2 children.
and practice a carefully designed proceedings
Ade was called to the Bar and enrolled at The for the purpose of seizing counterfeit goods
Supreme Court of Nigeria as Barrister and particularly pharmaceutical products, and other
Solicitor of The Supreme Court in November,
1988.

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City Of Raleigh

NORTH CAROLINA

WELCOME!

On behalf of the City of Raleigh, it is my pleasure to welcome the members and guests of Ibadan
Grammar School Old Students Association of North America (IGSOSANA) to North Carolina
and our capital city, Raleigh, for your 11th Annual Convention!
The work of your organization is so important to the communities that you serve and Raleigh is
proud to be the host city for your annual convention where you can share your accomplishments
and learn from your peers.
This year’s convention provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your 11th year of
operations in North Carolina. The important work of the IGSOSANA demonstrates your
ongoing commitment to providing high-quality programs and to challenging yourselves to
improve processes and procedures to stay current and effective.
We hope your event is an overwhelming success and that participants have a positive conference
experience. While you are here I hope you take the opportunity to explore some of Raleigh’s
thriving downtown. Please enjoy your time here and once again welcome to Raleigh!

With best wishes,

Nancy McFarlane
Mayor

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IGSOSA OFFICERS

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mr. Goodie M. lbru, OON Chairman
Amb. E. Olu Sanu, OFR Member
Chief T. Adeleke, OON Member
Mr. Adegoke Adeniji Secretary

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Ven. Muyiwa Oyewole National President
Ms. Dupe Kolawole 1st Vice National President
2nd Vice National President
Mr. Taiwo Osungbaro National Secretary
Rotimi Shodimu, Esq. National Treasurer/
Mr. Muyiwa Kupoluyi Financial Secretary
National Social/
Prof. Siji Adeokun. Publicity Secretary
Nat. Auditor
Mr. Gabriel Kayode Ayinde Ex Officio
Alhaji Abdullahi Alade Ex Officio
Mr. Babatunde Owolabi Ex Officio
Mr. Samuel Olayiwola Ex Officio
Ex Officio
Otunba Dr. Seyi Roberts.
Prof. Charles Aworh Ex Officio

(lmmed. Past Nat. President)
Mr. Oye Ajani

(School Principal.)

PAST PRESIDENTS

Late Chief E. L. Osunkunle 1983-1985
JP Late Chief Bayo Ogunyemi 1985- 1988
1988-1992
Chief T. A. Akinleye, OON 1992-1995
Late Chief A. B. Alabi 1995-1998
1998- 2001
Prince ‘Goke Ademiluyi 2001 - 2007
Chief Tunji Amole 2007-2010
2010 - 2014
Mr. Goodie M. lbru, OON
Late Engr. Seke Somolu, FNSE

Prof. Charles Ogugua Aworh

Goodwill
Message

VENERABLE OLUMUYIWA OYEWOLE

NATIONAL PRESIDENT, IGSOSA

am extremely delighted to Your introduction of the STEM program to the school
convey this goodwill message and the funding of the first edition was a landmark. You
did not stop there - you, also at our reunion in Ibadan
Ito IGSOSANA, the North this year 2018, presented the School with Multimedia
American Branch of our Old equipment aimed at further making your great school a
Students ’Association. Over the global player. And just before this presentation which I
years IGSOSANA has earned have the honour of commissioning, you created a Face-
an enviable reputation as a book page and twitter handle for all of us all over the
vibrant and formidable branch world to be in contact with one another while sharing
of Ibadan Grammar School information about our school. Let me say thank you and
Old Students ’Association. more thank you because of these various laudable ef-
Your interventions in the forts were done while I serve as your National President.
areas of Infrastructure and
quality delivery of teaching no
doubt have lifted our school
Ibadan Grammar School
higher than some of its peer
in our Nation Nigeria. The
Physics Laboratory, which you
built has helped in improving
the knowledge acquisition by
our science students.

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Another edition of the STEM program is“ and all old students for all you have done
starting soon, be assured of my ever-ready and trust that you will keep up the good
support and that of my Executive commit- works. I strongly believe that if other
tee. We will back your programs with our branches of our Association emulate the
time and resources so that collectively we shining examples of Lagos and IGSOSA-
can achieve our set goal. NA branches we will achieve our goal of
transforming our school and enhance its
To those who are joining us from outside glory. In the words of Helen Keller “Alone
Canada and United States of America, we we can do so little, together we can do so
all have made great strides as Mountain- much.”
eers in various fields of human endeavour
all over the world. This no doubt bear elo- Your 2018 Convention, the 11th, provides
quent testimony to how we were nurtured yet another opportunity for a pleasant re-
and moulded by our great school, an insti- union and reminiscences of memorable
tution like no other. We remain proud of school days amidst family and friends.
our school. It is an open secret that there I am certain that judging by your past
is a sharp decline in the standard of our conventions this year’s event will be a re-
school today due to the failure of the State sounding success. It hopefully will be my
Government to provide adequate funds last as the National President as we hope
and resources to equip the school in the to change the baton in few months. We
best possible standard. will soon be sending out the modality but
be assured that all will be involved in the
We must therefore, as old students contin- process.
ue to stand in the gap in order to keep the
lights aglow. I thank all old students, class It is my prayer that the Lord God will sur-
sets and other branches for the commend- round you with His presence all through
able support they have been given to IGS. the convention and lead you home safely
thereafter.
To the leadership lead by Dr Yinka Oku-
woga and members of IGSOSANA, I wish, I wish you happy deliberations.
once again to express my immense grati-
tude on behalf of the Executive Committee DEO ET PATRIAE!

“Alone
we can
do so
little,
together
we can
do so
much.”

Helen Keller

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Strategic &
Sustainable
Projects For a
Brighter
Future
Of IGS

hairman, Board of Trustees of Ibadan Grammar School support and ensure that all the aspirations and
Old Students' Association (IGSOSA) to the IGSOSANA efforts of our fellow old students are not only
actualized but also sustained for a brighter future
C11th Annual convention in North Carolina NC, USA of our school and Association.
on 30th August - 2nd September 2018. The building and supply of physics lab and the
Dear esteemed Mountaineers, Guests and well wishers, multimedia equipment, The STEM, (Science,
I am honoured to present my goodwill message at this Technology, Engineering Mathematics and Train
year IGSOSANA Convention. the Trainers programmes, to mention a few is
evidence of your support in the right direction.
This is the 11th convention in the series; first let me appreciate Dr Yinka However, I believe there is still room to extend
Okuwoga and the members of the executive planning committee and the more opportunities and benefits to our school.
entire members of IGSOSANA for their consistency; for organizing the Lastly, I hope that the STEM programme will
convention every year since its inception you are truly living up to the be continuous, your vision and programmes
mission statement of IGSOSANA namely “to foster a lifelong relationship for our alma mater shall be sustained, while
between our Alma Mater and its old students”; also “to offer our alumni a also trusting that your branch would work hard
focal point of support, event coordination and benefits”. to determine the next steps for another decade
Recall that we celebrated the centenary of the founding of our great Alma in the history of IGSOSANA. 'What can be
Mater on 31st March 2013 and at the time we entered the second century measured can be improved upon'. Please take
there had been a great harvest of invaluable endowments, donations and advantage of both capital and human resources
projects; we can now boast of a world class ICT Centre, an ultra-modern within your environment to further the course
e-library, Emmanuel Alayande (Multipurpose) Hall, Borehole with of your objectives. It would be worthwhile for
overhead storage tank etc. These are enviable additions to the hitherto poor IGSOSANA, in partnership with other functional
infrastructure facilities at the school. It is also worthy of note that IGSOSA branches, to focus on more developmental
UK has been in pursuit of Excellence in Education IGSOSANA engaged projects in moving Ibadan Grammar School
itself in building a physics laboratory of the highest standard and also to an enviable leadership position not only in
engaged itself in researching strategies for Development and IGSOSALAG Nigeria but on the world at large.
has been championing classroom renovation and building a corpers’ lodge. Once again, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, I
These are giant strides for Old Students anywhere in any country or clime. wish you another great and successful convention.
My fellow distinguished Mountaineers, it is heart-warming that class Long live Ibadan Grammar School, long live
sets and individuals are willing to give back to the school in the form of IGSOSANA and long live IGSOSA worldwide.
various projects and donations. However, if care is not taken, a well planned
reconstructed lbadan Grammar School might be a mirage. I would like to Goodie M. Ibru,OON
request that National Executive Committee to be strategically repositioned Chairman, Board of Trustees
to kindly monitor and harmonise various activities of the Class Sets/ Ibadan Grammar School Old Students’
branches and set an articulated road map for a developed and modern Association
Ibadan Grammar School. The Board of Trustees shall continue to offer its

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NATURAL BORN
LEADERS

NOTABLE OLUBADANS OHLUOBUADSAEN

- VEN. MUYIWA OYEWOLE WELCOMES
National President, IGSOSA
&you to RALEIGH, NC
- PROF. CHARLES AWORH
IPP, IGSOSA CONGRATULATES

- DR. YINKA OKUWOGA IGSOSANA
President IGSOSANA
on the occasion of its
- PASTOR AYO ADEBOWALE 11TH ANNUAL CONVENTION
Vice President, IGSOSANA
BY DR. GBOYEGA OSINBOWALE
- MRS. OLA OLAFUNMILOYE
General Secretary, IGSOSANA

- DR. GBOYEGA OSINBOWALE
IPP, IGSOSANA

- DR. MADE OYENIYA
Past Treasurer, IGSOSANA

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The Bishop Alexander Babat

AWARD FOR PIONEER

Leader

Awarded for leadership that exhibits the
qualities of innovation and the pioneer
spirit in any area of life.

y sheer accident of birth, Alexander School, in 1903. Bishop Tugwell, his superintendent, had
Babatunde Akinyele was a scion of one been impressed by Akinyele’s assiduity and ambition—
B of the pioneer Christian families in he was learning to improve his Latin on his own while
Ibadan. He was also one of the earliest performing his duties in Abeokuta with a view to attending
graduates of Christian-inflected Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone, for higher
modern education in the city. What education. Tugwell wanted him in Lagos, in part, to give
he did with the circumstances of birth him access to private tuition help to further his ambition.
and the privileges that attached to He studied at Fourah Bay College from 1904 to 1906 at
his faith and education marked him the end of which he obtained his Licentiate in Theology.
out as a leader of women and men whose life exemplified what He returned to Ibadan and began the career that would
we celebrate with this award: principled commitment to making make him the legend that we now celebrate and honour.
the world a better place beginning with one’s specific location His return to Ibadan in 1906 began the most important
and radiating to the larger human community. He was born on phases of his career as a missionary, educationist, and
September 5, 1875, to a father, Josiah Akinyele, who had converted community leader. He moved along the clerical ladder
to Christianity against the wish of his famous herbalist father, and a through becoming a Deacon in 1909 and a priest a year
mother, Lapemo, who, herself, was a daughter of one of the original later “in charge of Kudeti Church” given the growing
converts to Christianity in Ibadan, Kukomi, under the direction of infirmity of the Reverend Olubi. He married Miss
David Hinderer. The renowned historian of the Yorùbá, Samuel Fehintola Davies on January 12, 1911 “at St. Peter’s
Johnson was the one with whom he took the trek to Lagos at age 11, Church, Ake, Abeokuta”.
with the blessing of his parents, to attend Aroloya School, and there, It was as the head of the Ibadan District Church Council
he lived with another Johnson, Nathaniel. He proceeded from there that he spearheaded the move to establish a high school
to the C.M.S. Grammar School, Lagos, Nigeria’s oldest secondary in Ibadan to stem the tide of Ibadan’s young trooping to
school, where he finished in 1896. After teaching stints, beginning Lagos and Abeokuta for secondary education. Under his
in 1899, at Ikija and Ake, Abeokuta, the latter where he was both leadership, the Diocesan Board, the authorizing body back
“the church organist and school-master”, he was transferred back then for approving new schools under the Church, despite
to Lagos to serve as a teacher at his alma mater, C.M.S. Grammar opposition for different groups citing the unreadiness of
the city for such an undertaking, “the Board granted the
application solely on its merits”. On March 31, 1913, our
alma mater came on stream with Akinyele as the pioneer
principal. The legacy that our school is does not need
any embellishment in this short biography. But a lot of

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tunde Akinyele 2018 Recipient

rship
what defines our traditions and usages that have been
passed down to generations of alumni and alumnae PROFESSOR
can be traced to the personality and pedagogy of AKIN MABOOGUNJE
our founding principal: the centrality of music to a
solid liberal education, the commitment to principle ~ CLASS SET 1943/48 ~
and integrity in all things, community involvement,
and the fact that our education is a privilege that we World Renowned Geoprapher
redeem by service to humanity beyond ourselves.
Read Profile & Accomplishments on Page 34
He was one of the founders of the Egbe Agba O Tan
[Elders-Are-Not-Extinct Society] and this explains,
in part, our school motto. “It was to be a society
for the preservation of Yoruba culture.” For this
to happen, it had for its “primary objective”: “‘to
institute research into all Yoruba Religions, Customs,
Philosophy, Medical Knowledge, Arts, Sciences,
Manufactures, Poetical Cultures, Political and
National Histories, etc.’” The insistence that the best
of the new should be married to the best of the old in
our lives under Christianity and the then incipient
colonial regime in Ibadan partly explains the dual
languages—Latin and Yoruba—in which our school
motto is inscribed.

A pioneer missionary, educationist, and community
leader who accomplished all this in spite of some
physical disability that resulted from a childhood
injury to his left shoulder that nearly claimed his life
and which some attempted to use to disqualify him
from becoming Bishop of Ibadan in 1933, is a worthy
model for others in our time and in the future who
receive the IGSOSANA Pioneer Leadership Award.

We celebrate and honour the memory of Bishop A.B.
Akinyele for his pioneering spirit, his institution-
building, and his peerless service to humanity.

[The materials in this biographical account have been distilled
from Bayo Adebiyi, The Beloved Bishop: The Life of Bishop A.B.
Akinyele, D.D., C.B.E., 1875-1968 (Ibadan: Daystar Press, 1969)
and O.A. Adeboye, “‘Elders-Still-Exist’: Socio-cultural Groups and
Political Participation in Colonial Ibadan,” Olufemi Vaughan, ed.,
Indigenous Political Structures and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan:
Bookcraft, 2004), pp. 195-230.]

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THE ARCHDEACON
EMMANUEL OLADIPO

ALAYANDE AWARD

FOR EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVIC

Awarded to anyone who exhibits the spirit of giving in
service to the public in politics, community engagement, or
philanthropy.

Oga as he is fondly called, was not just a principal extraordinaire,
he was a politician and a public servant without peer. Moving
from IGS to chair of the State Schools Board was a recognition
of his standing as a public servant.

G badamosi Ladipo Ajao Alayande Bishop A. B. Akinyele, Alayande joined the staff of
was born on January 10, 1910 to Ibadan Grammar School as Vice-Principal in 1947 and
Sanni Akano Alayande (an expert became Principal a year later. He served as Principal of
drummer) and Okekunbi Okesina Ibadan Grammar School for 20 years (1948-1968) and
(a kolanut trader). He had his his achievements were so monumental that his name
early education at St. Peter’s Infant became synonymous with the School. He it was who
moved the school from its original campus at Oke-Are
School, Ojaagbo and St. Peter’s to the Molete site that has been home to the school
ever since. Other notable achievements include the
Senior Primary School, Aremo, recruitment of graduate and expatriate teachers
(including several graduate teachers sponsored to
Ibadan from 1916 to 1927, during universities by the School), the introduction of the
Higher School Certificate programme, the Remedial
the course of which he converted Science programme and the encouragement of the
admission of girls into the School. Not only did he
to Christianity and became Emmanuel. This trajectory from turn Ibadan Grammar School into a coeducational
institution, he was convinced that Ibadan could use
Islam to Christianity was not unusual for many of his generation more spaces for girls’ education than the city’s only
girls’ schools at that time could avail. He was able,
and later ones. It may help explain the ecumenical spirit that, eventually, to prevail on the Ibadan District Church
Council to authorize the establishment of what would
until recently, has been a standard feature of life in the western later become Yejide Girls’ Grammar School in 1956.

part of Nigeria. The Alayande legacy in Ibadan Grammar School could
be measured not only in the outstanding stature
He started his teaching career as a pupil teacher in 1928 at St. of the School, but also in the quality of the alumni
Peter’s School, Aremo, Ibadan. Later that year, proceeded to and alumnae. In his time, becoming Principal of an
St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, where he imbibed, in large measure, Anglican School usually meant becoming a priest;
the spirit of Andrianism characterized by industry, self-reliance, hence, he became a Deacon in 1950, Canon in 1960
perseverance, loyalty, honesty, selfless service, and fear of and, following his retirement in 1968, he became a
God. On graduating from St. Andrew’s College, Oyo in 1932, full-time priest and was preferred and collated as an
Papa Alayande taught first at St. Stephen’s School, Ondo and,
in 1940, was transferred to Ondo Boys’ High School where he
taught till 1943, spending a total of eleven years at Ondo. In
June 1943, he was admitted to Fourah Bay College, Freetown,
Sierra Leone, where he read Latin, History, Theology and
Economics, and, in 1946, obtained the B. A. degree of Durham
University, to which Fourah Bay College was affiliated. In 1947,
he obtained the Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the
University of London. Under the influence of his father-in-law,

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O Archdeacon in 1976. 2018 Recipient

D As accomplished an educationist as AMBASSADOR
Alayande was, he was, also, from the OLUSOLA SANU
CE beginning, a politician who took active
part in the movement for independence ~ CLASS-SET 1942/47 ~
as a member of the Ibadan branch of the
Nigeria Youth Movement, the Egbe Omo Public Administrator/Career Diplomat
Oduduwa, the Ibadan People’s Party, a
founding member of the Action Group, all Read Profile & Accomplishments on Page 35
the way to the Unity Party of Nigeria in 1978,
on the platform of which he contested
the nomination for the governor of Oyo
State. At various times he served first as
Financial Secretary and, later, Chaplain of
the Action Group. This meant that he was
not just an implementer of educational
policies, as a frontline member of the party
that midwifed the introduction of free
education into Nigeria, Alayande knew the
importance of participation in the process
of evolving policy. It was not an accident
that he left the principalship of Ibadan
Grammar School for the chairmanship
of the Western State Schools’ Board
beginning in 1969. An avowed Awoist, he
was President of the Yoruba Council of
Elders from 2000-2003.

A philanthropist of note, Alayande played
a leading role in many organizations
including the Nigerian Union of Teachers,
the St. Andrew’s College Old Boys’
Association, the Rotary Club and the Red
Cross. He used his great experience,
wisdom and energy in serving as member
or chairman in various positions in the
public service including the Western
Regional Advisory Board on Education,
the West African Examinations Council,
and the Public Service Commission. He
was Special Adviser on Education in Oyo
State, 1979-1983. In recognition of his
contributions to the community and the
nation, he was awarded the M.B.E. in
1960, the honorary chieftaincy title of
Aare of Ibadanland in 1977, the national
honours of O.O.N. in 1980, honorary LL.
D of the University of Ibadan in 1988,
the Oyo State Merit Award in 1990, and
the national honours of O.F.R. in 2000.
[Distilled from Ezekiel Oladele Adeoti,
Alayande as Educationist, 1948-1983:
a Study of Alayande’s Contributions to
Education and Social Change (Ibadan:
Heinemann Educational Books, 1997).

We celebrate Archdeacon Emmanuel
Ladipo Alayande for his incomparable
life as an educationist, community leader,
and public servant.

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CHIEF JOSEPH AYO LABIYI

AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED
PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Oga Labiyi was a distinguished educationist, I was the second best in my school with
administrator, counselor, and more. Six Credits.”

hief Joseph Ayo Labiyi was born into the family of Daniel He worked for a time as a Storekeeper
Akande Labiyi and Iwinfunmike Labiyi on August 15, 1926. with the Gbedun Cooperative Produce
and Marketing Society. He decided that
CHe attended St. Joseph’s Primary School, Gbedun, between that was not going to be his vocation. He
1933 and 1936, moved to St. Peter’s School, Aremo, Ibadan, elected instead to go back to his alma ma-
in 1937, where he completed his primary school education ter as a junior teacher in 1948. His career
in 1940. A brilliant student, Labiyi went straight from Stan- as an educationist was thereby inaugu-
dard Four instead of the normal Standard Six to secondary rated. To suit himself for a full career as
school at Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan, between 1941 a teacher, he proceeded to Freetown, Si-
and 1946. This did not put him at any disadvantage. Quite erra Leone, at the renowned Fourah Bay
the contrary, at IGS he distinguished himself. As he puts it, “My academic College, for higher education. Between
career at IGS was on the whole satisfactory. I was clearly the best student in 1949 and 1954, he earned a Bachelor of
Class 1 in 1941. Even though I came from Standard Four, I beat all those who Arts (B.A.) from there and a Higher Di-
had read Standard Six. When, in 1946, 1 took the Senior Cambridge Exam- ploma in Education (Higher Dip. Ed.)
ination, I made a Grade II but with exemption from London Matriculation. from Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. It
is testimony to his brilliance that he was a
scholarship student for the entirety of his
higher education. He returned to IGS as
a graduate teacher in 1954.
He was not there for long when he was
called by the Ibadan community to be the
pioneer principal of a new school, Lage-
lu Grammar School, Ibadan, inaugurated
on January 27, 1958. He was responsible
for building the institution from scratch
and such was the success he achieved at
this task that by the time he was sum-
moned to become the principal of his
alma mater in 1969, ten years later, La-
gelu Grammar School had become one
of the leading high schools in the Ibadan
metropolis.
He returned to IGS to assume the princi-
palship there in 1969. He became the first
alumnus of the institution to be appoint-
ed its principal. He ended his career with
retirement from service as the principal

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of Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife, where he moved in 2018 Recipient
1975 and served till 1976.
Certain features stand out in his long and dis- VENERABLE
tinguished career. First, he was a classroom OLUMUYIWA OYEWOLE
teacher for only four years, post-graduation.
He was, literally speaking, only ever a principal ~ CLASS SET 1961/65/67 ~
for the preponderant part of his working life.
Secondly, he built one school from scratch and Renowned Banker & Businessman
helmed three others that were all storied institu-
tions. It is obvious that one must be an incred- Read Profile & Accomplishments on Page 40
ible leader and a gifted manager of humans and
materiel to have been chosen for these roles at
different times by different appointing agencies.
One could not serve tours of duty at the helm of
three different distinguished secondary schools
without impacting in many significant respects
the development of the students whose lives
were molded by those institutions and those
who staffed them at a delicate stage—between
puberty and adolescence—of the development
of those wards. And impact did Labiyi have on
those of us who had the privilege of being in his
care. If you had ever been present at any of the
Friday afternoon assemblies and heard him sum
up the week, share with us warnings and admo-
nitions regarding the dangers of drug use and
other untoward, unhealthy pursuits, it is a voice
that continued to resonate long after you would
have left high school behind. And it is no won-
der that he had a hand in shaping the lives of
many who have gone on to attain distinction in
all walks of life. He was a principal of principals.
It was in recognition of his sterling accomplish-
ments as a moulder of young minds and the im-
pact on the community that he was conferred
with the title of the Agbaakin Aare of Ibadan-
land on January 27, 1974. A man of many parts,
Labiyi, at different periods in his inspiring life,
has been a passionate community leader, a ded-
icated church leader, a conscientious politician,
a sports administrator, and an accomplished ed-
ucationist! At various times, he has been Chair-
man, Ibadan football Association, Chairman,
Oyo State Central Schools Board, President,
Oke’Badan Union, President, Emmanuel Soci-
ety of St. Peter’s Church; Aremo among many
other enviable positions.
We celebrate a distinguished educationist whose
professional accomplishments were designed to
serve humanity and enhance the quality of our
lives in the world.

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THE DR. JONATHAN FRENCH AWAR

JOYEDEJI DAVID FAVOUR JSS2: AKINSOLA PEACE OPEYEMI JSS 3 OWOLABI JOSEPH S
AWARD: BEST IN BASIC SCIENCE AWARD: BEST IN AGRIC. SCIENCE AWARD: BEST IN PHY

onathan Akin French was born on January 5, 1940 in New 1962; United States was establishing a youth corps
Jersey United States of America, grew up in several towns program whereby young Americans could, in lieu
in the Greater New York City area, and attended public of observing two years of military service, opt for
schools. Growing up during the Second World War, a service in some foreign countries. It was also
complete with memories of air raid drills while it lasted the period the then principal, Canon Emmanuel
and, later, other world events, including the creation of Alayande visited Harvard in the spring of 1961
the United Nations, and the Korean War, his interest in to recruit teachers for the school, and French
foreign affairs began at a very early age that found him “was most willingly recruited to go to Nigeria
poring over the maps of the United States and the World. to teach Physics and Applied Mathematics—at
[Alayande’s] school, no less.”
French did not become a scientist by accident, his
inclination towards the sciences had been noticeable right French recalls with great humor his move
from his childhood and this made his father give him a small electric to Ibadan as follows, “I had just graduated
motor to assemble as a six year-old kid. He enjoyed messing around from Harvard, and therefore I thought I knew
with science experiments. everything. Ha! Ha! Ha! My poor students, who
had to suffer from my hubristic ignorance!”
As a student, French found out he was ingenious in the discipline of
hydrodynamics but had to decide between Rocket Science and Water Jonathan arrived Ibadan Grammar School in
Resources. September 1961 with his old “Constructioneer
“set, and huge coil of insulated wire, for making
In time, he developed two parallel interests: foreign affairs and science magnets and motors. These and other scientific
- specifically engineering. The latter led him to Harvard where he materials he purchased later while at the school
studied Engineering and Applied Physics. While studying at Harvard, were left in the Physics lab for students at his
he would find time to attend lectures and seminars on events in Ghana, departure from Ibadan Grammar School in July
Guinea and Nigeria and would spend summer Holidays in Europe, 1963.
fulfilling his second interest in foreign affairs.His two-year sojourn
at Ibadan Grammar School was providential - the great shedding of He recalls his time at Ibadan Grammar school
European colonies in Africa and Asia was unraveling between 1957 and fondly, times he spent in the labs with his students

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RDS FOR BEST SCIENCE STUDENTS

SS1 BABALAKIN SEFUNMI SS1 AMUBIKAUN ABDULSEMIU SS2
YSICS & BIOLOGY AWARD: BEST IN CHEMISTRY AWARD: BEST IN PHYSICS & BIOLOGY

performing experiments, conducting exams for to receive.” He adds, “It certainly
the HSC students (with one disaster stemming feels good! I am fortunate to be
from improper material), opening up the able to give some.” This explains
laboratory for the fifth form students preparing the generosity of spirit that
for their O level exams as well as students motivates his choices in life from
from other classes working on their science his intellectual curiosity early
projects. He always showed excitement with and in life to direct engagement with
encouraged students’ projects such as the slide humanity away from the comforts
rule by Chinyere Ikoku; Bayo Olagoke’s 4 cylinder of home in different parts of the
engine cutaway model; and Joseph Gamra’s small world and continues to inform
electric car. the pattern of giving of which our
Jonathan credits his time at Ibadan Grammar for institution, our association, and our
steering his subsequent career course. He went on younger numbers are beneficiaries.
to the California Institute of Technology for an
M.S and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering specializing On the question of his sustained
in Hydraulics and Water Resources, and worked interest in and support of science,
for 44 years at a firm to improve water supply Dr. Jonathan French concludes, Dr. Jonathan French
and wastewater disposal in many parts of the “Nothing moves forward without
USA and abroad. He is still happily practicing science to lead it, engineering to
hydraulic and coastal engineering part-time. He develop it, and mathematics to support them both. Political leaders
is an embodiment of how hard science informed need us STEM folks, otherwise we would have no air travel, no iPhones,
by a humanistic impulse can make the world and no new medicines, no new water supplies – or the many other gifts
the lives of those who inhabit it more humane and necessary for peace and balance on our little blue planet.”
livable.
He anchors his philanthropic activities on the We celebrate Dr. Jonathan Akin French, an icon and visionary
religious injunction, “It is more blessed to give than for nurturing and developing our capacity to face the future with
confidence to succeed.

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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRINCIPAL

OUR APPRECIATION

& UPDATES
of three weeks for all members of staff for effective delivery of
teaching services via this new modes of infrastructures.

The National President IGSOSA, IGSOSANA President, The AIONIAN Games 2018 Competition success is traceable
fellow Mountaineers, distinguished ladies and gentlemen. I to the financial support of IGSOSANA. Our school did not
am honoured to be the principal of this great school at this only stand out in academics but also in sporting competition.
time. Since my posting to this office, I have been working Our success is a pride to IGSOSANA; we sincerely appreciate
tirelessly on improving the students discipline and attitude this untiring support. The contribution of various class sets
towards their academic pursuits. I can recall that our com- and Non governmental Organisations is worthy of praise.
bined efforts have reflected positively in every facet of the We commend the 1975/80 class set for the provision of an
school development. I have benefited immensely from the international standard table tennis with its full compliments.
contributions of the Old Students Association especially the The 1968/72 class set surprise of an ultra modern sick bay for
Old Student’s Association North America (IGSOSANA) the school is worthy of commendation. We are in deed very
branch towards the uplift of the school. As an old boy, I am grateful for the provision of all this wonderful infrastructures.
obliged to congratulate every fellow alumnus for this collec-
tive effort in making our Alma Mater great. Worthy of note, is the scholarship scheme of #35,000 each for
We sincerely appreciate the procurement and installation of 10 students annually in the Junior Secondary One (JS1) with
four (4) new projectors to enhance e-learning in the school. a promissory note to extend it to the university level all in the
Two of these projectors were fixed in the new ultra modern memory of Pa Alhaji, Aliudoye 1943/48 set (deceased old stu-
physics laboratory, one at the e-library and ICT while a mo- dent). The family head of this family is the current Secretary
bile one was installed in the Emmanuel Alayande Hall. This to the Oyo state government, Chief Lekan Ali. We appreciate
level of infrastructural development in our school makes it this family for this great innovation.
stand out among public secondary schools in Nigeria. To I must not forget to appreciate the National President Vener-
collaborate this great gesture, the school organised a com- able Muyiwa Oyewole for his generosity towards the school
pulsory two day computer training per week for a period at all times. On behalf of all members of staff and students,
we appreciate you all. Thank you and God bless. Like Oliver
Twist, we ask for your support in the provision of a school
bus which will be used in conveying the young grammarian
to competitions and school social functions. We believe our
great school association is up to the task and we appreciate
you ahead for it. We count on your efforts. Once again thank
you all.

Ajani Oyeade Francis
Principal, Ibadan Grammar School

CONNECTIONS | 32 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

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continued from page 25

PROF. AKIN MABOOGUNJE

2018 RECIPIENT OF THE BISHOP ALEXANDER
BABATUNDE AKINYELE AWARD FOR PIONEER
LEADERSHIP

The Bishop Alexander Babatunde Akinyele Pioneer Award for
Leadership is awarded for leadership that exhibits the qualities of
innovation and the pioneer spirit in any area of life.

A geographer and social scientist of high repute, Professor Akin
Maboogunje has distinguished himself as a leader with administrative
expertise and competence. His outstanding leadership in both private
and public sectors has spanned decades in various spheres at the
university level, the Nigeria national level, and on the international
stage.

After obtaining a B.A. General degree in Geography in 1953 from the University College, Ibadan, he
proceeded to the University of London where he earned a B.A. degree in 1956; a Master’s in 1958 and a
Ph.D. in 1961. In 1964, at the age of 34, he became a Professor of Geography.

On the professional level, he joined the staff of the University of Ibadan as a lecturer and rose to the
position of Head of Department of Geography. Other positions he held at the University included: Dean
Faculty of the Social Sciences; Director, Planning Studies Program; Member of Senate; and Chairman of
many Senate and Council Committees where his contributions to the development of the University of
Ibadan were enormous.
Professor Maboogunje has distinguished himself at the national level having consulted for all levels
of government; local, state, and federal on diverse development issues. Worthy of note is his book,
Urbanization in Nigeria, about urbanization and state formation. He was Chairman, Nigerian Council
for Management Development; Chairman of the Nigerian National Merit Award Endowment Fund; and
Executive Chairman of the National Board for Community Banks.

At the international level, his contributions are all notable having consulted for such varied organizations
as the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development in Geneva; International Council for
Scientific Unions; the International Labor Organization (ILO); the Population Council, New York; the
African Studies Association; UNCHS; UNDP and UNESCO, among others. He has also held many
important positions either as a member, Chairman or President of about a dozen organizations. Among
them are: the first African to be the President of the International Geographical Union (IGU); Chairman,
International Committee for Overcoming Hunger; and Adviser to the Secretary General, United Nations
Second Conference on Human Settlements.

A recipient of numerous honours from all parts of the world, we at IGSOSANA celebrate Professor Akin
Maboogunje’s pioneering spirit in academia and other walks of life. For his impact in his chosen profession
and on Nigeria, in particular, and the world at large, we honour him with our very first Bishop Alexander
Babatunde Akinyele Pioneer Award for Leadership this 1st day of September, 2018.

~ ~Deo et Patriae

CONNECTIONS | 34 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

continued from page 27

AMBASSADOR OLUSOLA SANU

2018 RECIPIENT OF THE ARCHDEACON ALAYANDE
AWARD FOR EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVICE

The Archdeacon Emmanuel Oladipo Alayande Award for Exemplary
Public Service is awarded to anyone who exhibits of giving in the
spirit of service to the public in politics, community engagement, or
philanthropy.

Ambassador Olu Sanu is an accomplished diplomat, international public
servant of great repute, and an incomparable leader of his local Ibadan
community. He started his career as a civil servant in the defunct Western
Region while Nigeria was still under the sway of colonial rule. One of
the earliest recruits into what would later become the new country’s
diplomatic service, Sanu would distinguish himself in that service and
retire to continuing service to humanity in his local community and the country at large. With degrees
from Howard University, Washington, D.C., and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, both in
the United States of America, Sanu was part of the second batch of intakes into Nigeria’s foreign service and
started out in the then Nigerian Liaison Office in Washington, D.C., where he had the privilege of witnessing
the very transformation of that office into a full-fledged embassy on the attainment of independence on
October 1, 1960. His stint at the United Nations as a member of the Chief Simeon Adebo-led Nigeria’s
Permanent Mission led to his being appointed by the then UN Secretary General, U Thant, to a special
committee charged with the administrative reform of the UN system. He received his first ambassadorial
appointment from the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who made him Ambassador to the
former Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now African Union (AU) and the Court of the Emperor
Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. He left Ethiopia to serve as Ambassador to Belgium, the former European
Economic Community, the precursor to the European Union, where he led the African, Caribbean and
Pacific (ACP) countries to the Lome Convention governing trade between the two blocs. He would later
serve as Nigeria’s ambassador to the United States, China, and North Korea before his last posting as High
Commissioner to Australia.

Post-retirement, he was a Fellow in International Relations at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife,
Osun State, helping to lend his considerable stature to the Department of International Relations there
while, simultaneously, grooming minds of those who would go on to serve in different spheres of the field
of international relations, both in and out of academia. His last diplomatic assignment for Nigeria came
when he was appointed a special envoy to the Republic of Sudan, six years into his retirement.

Since then, he has become a pillar of the Ibadan community through his yeoman services to and leadership
of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes.

For his service to humanity as a distinguished diplomat, accomplished international public servant, and
beloved community leader, IGSOSANA honours Ambassador Olu Sanu with the Archdeacon Emmanuel
Oladipo Alayande Award for Exemplary Public Service this 1st day of September, 2018.

~ ~Deo et Patriae

CONNECTIONS | 35 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

Old Students are Making a Difference Every Day!

Membership YOU
Matters!
Membership CAN MAKE A
is one of the
simplest, DIFFERENCE!
most
meaningful
and most
affordable
ways to
give back
to our
School.

Identify yourself as a proud Grammarian
who has a stake in the school’s future by
becoming a dues paying member today.

Only $15/Month or

$180/Year

Make your
payment
today or
visit our
website at

www.igsosana.org

CONNECTIONS | 36 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

TOGETHER
We can make a difference!

DONATE

IF YOU CAN’T DONATE

VOLUNTEER

IF YOU CAN’T VOLUNTEER

SPONSOR

IF YOU CAN’T SPONSOR

ADVOCATE

Do more than belong: participate. Do more than care: help.
Do more than believe: practice. Do more than talk: take action.

Do more than critic: provide alternate solutions.

CONNECTIONS | 37 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

Houston 2017



from page 29

VENERABLE ‘MUYIWA OYEWOLE

2018 RECIPIENT OF THE CHIEF JOSEPH LABIYI
AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED PROFESSIONAL
ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Chief Ayo Labiyi Award for Distinguished Professional
Accomplishments is awarded to anyone whose professional
attainments are marked by service to others beyond her or his field.

Venerable Olumuyiwa Oyewole has been a successful banker,
property developer and, lately, distinguished parson. It is enough to
be distinguished in one profession; it is rare to do so in two, unrelated
professions. Such is the career of Olumuyiwa Oyewole that he has
managed to do this. After the conclusion of his secondary education at Ibadan Grammar School,
Oyewole started out in the financial industry as Accounts Clerk with the old Cooperative Bank Limited
at Ibadan and later as a Senior Clerk at the London Branch of the defunct National Bank of Nigeria
Limited. He acquired his higher educational qualifications from South West London College and the
Rivers State University of Science and Technology. A seasoned banker, he ran the gamut from clerk to
Managing Director in the banking sector. He was at various times Deputy Head of Department and
Assistant General Manager (Finance) with the Société Generale Bank Limited; Head of Operations at
Republic Bank Limited; General Manager at Group Merchant Bank and eventually Managing Director,
United Commercial Bank. He moved into the mortgage industry and became the Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of M&N Building Society Limited. In this latter sector, he has served as Consultant
and Project Coordinator for C & C Construction Company Limited responsible for the storied Banana
Island Project in Lagos, Managing Director of Ocean Parade Limited and Marketing Manager for Eko
Akete Housing Estate Scheme and Eko Atlantic City Development Scheme, all significant components
of a burgeoning property development sector affecting the lives and times and changing the landscape of
Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos.

His deep spiritual commitments and engagements with his Anglican background eventually led him to
the priesthood, becoming, first, a Deacon, and later, an ordained minister in the Nigeria Province of
the Anglican Church Worldwide in 2005. He retired in March 2018 from the Vicariate of the Anglican
Church for All Nations, Victoria Island, Lagos. This is merely the crown of a life of service to his church,
the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, and the wider Christian community of which it is a part.
His philanthropic activities are legendary, and our alma mater has been the recipient of a lot of his
generosity both before and since he assumed office as the National President of the Ibadan Grammar Old
Students Association (IGSOSA).

For his professional accomplishments and the dedication of his professional competence to the service of his
professions, his community, our school, and the wider world, we honour the Venerable Olumuyiwa Oyewole
with the Chief Ayo Labiyi Award for Distinguished Professional Accomplishments this 1st day of September
2018.

~ ~Deo et Patriae

CONNECTIONS | 40 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

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A Goodwill Message

FROM CHAIRMAN

IGSOSA

LAGOS CHAPTER

HAKEEM SUARA

T he President, Dr. Yinka Okuwoga, members of it is very imperative for IGSOSANA to be involved at
the IGSOSANA Executive, fellow Mountaineers, IGSOSA National level. In view of the global focus
distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. I am very of your programmes and activities, I implore you to
delighted and honoured to present a short goodwill use your position to partner with other functional
message at this year’s convention. It is my fervent Branches to redirect the affairs of the National body
prayer that we shall continue to shout for joy with one to meet the challenges and realities of the 21st century.
accord today and always by the special grace of God. It is also pertinent to note that we cannot continue
to be engaged with the same methods over the years
I recall the formative years of IGSOSANA and efforts of the founding and expect different results; we need to change the
Mountaineers among who were Mr. Akintude Aboaba and Ms. Nike Akintewe. narratives. A more evolving National body with a
As the Secretary of Lagos Branch then, it was an effortless assignment to give the global presence and structure that is not tendentious
new Branch all necessary information and support. Today, I am very delighted but courageous enough to monitor and unify all
to see that a meeting of few individuals some years ago has blossomed into a activities at our Alma mater and branches is needed
full scale body of committed individuals and professionals who were nurtured urgently. Scores of projects and infrastructure at
at Ibadan Grammar School. Ibadan Grammar School cannot be meaningful if we
failed to develop penchants for maintenance culture
IGSOSANA has a clear cut objectives of fostering a lifelong relationship among and accountability.
all old students of Ibadan Grammar School with unfettered support to our
Alma mater and thus underscores:

1. Reunion of the members from all parts of the globe;

2. To raise funds to upgrade the physical infrastructure of
the school

It is highly commendable that your goals and objectives have been manifesting At this juncture, on behalf of IGSOSA, Lagos Branch,
in all the activities of your Branch in the past years especially in the past couple I wish to convey our warm congratulations to all the
of years with reference to the new Physics Laboratory including supply of members of IGSOSANA at this year Convention. We
equipment, the Annual Prize-Giving Day, the Aionian Games, the provision of pray and hope that all the deliberations at this 11th
multimedia equipment and the flagship of all your programmes - The STEM Convention shall herald the beginning of another
Projects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) great decade in the annals of history of your Branch
However, I wish to draw your attention to the numerous tasks ahead. Your and IGSOSA family in particular.
efforts in repositioning our Alma mater and Association should be all inclusive; Thank you and God bless

CONNECTIONS | 43 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

THE POWERS THAT BE AKHIoNusYeELE

IGCONSGORASTUALANTEAS
ON THE OCCASION OF ITS

11TH ANNUAL CONVENTION

WELCOME TO RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

BY MR. YINKA OMOLE

CONNECTIONS | 44 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

WHATSAPP GROUP

5 CHAT GUIDE
WhatsApp is wonderful. It simplifies conversations and makes life that much easier and

better. And, oh my, it allows you to form groups of any kind, too! For example an old students

group like ours have instant chat that everyone across the world can participate in no matter Rule #4: Stick to
where they are! Here are five golden rules for WhatsApp group members so you don’t end up the purpose of the
Group chat
making some sensitive souls go... If you’re in a group about

Rule #1: Just. Send. Short. IncluSdeenydoWaunr IWfehumGaalalnatdinSslnaActOmlotaeitspnS,[email protected]?ae.ro,regmail work and the main pur-
Messages. Seriously. pose is to update all col-
leagues about your WIP,
If every message you send is endless then please do not start
sentences and reams of text or bad spreading funny videos,
jokes with lots of space between the links to cute cat videos,
sentences which is just plain irritating and random viral mes-
and you think people are reading it or sages.
and resisting the urge to block you; Whenever a new message
then you are sadly mistaken and is received, older messages
what’s worse, you have misunderstood get pushed to the top.
the point of WhatsApp, which is to Imagine how frustrating it
text, like SMS, which means Short is for someone who needs
Messaging Service, but online, and to catch up on messages,
thus be reachable on more than and she/he has to scroll
one platform as well as not pay through all this irrelevant
extravagant texting costs, and you’ve stuff before she/he finds
missed the boat, my friend and we what she/he needs to.
really stopped reading your messages
a long time ago, because hello, the
19th century is over and stop writing
letters on WhatsApp. Or if you’re in a chat
about a sensitive or an
important topic; don’t be
There — see how annoying it is? insensitive and start to

send marketing materials,
religious or political
Rule #2: Be clear in both words write-ups that are not
and approach relevant.

People with clarity in their thoughts are often
taken to be more seriously than others. And
how clear you are with your thoughts gets
easily reflected in the way you send messages Rule #5: Verify before you share
on WhatsApp.
Send one message in one chunk, not single These days people are so quick to believe every
senteneces. Be careful of autocorrect. Make single message thread they receive on Whatsapp.
sure it’s correctly written and properly If someone were to spread the message “pigs are
structured. Also, avoid using SMS lingo flying in Langkawi, spotted this morning at 6am”
in your messages. WhatsApp doesn’t have with a photoshopped image of a flying pig – well,
people would just go crazy.

those character limits. These small things do It’s so important to verify whatever message you
leave an impact on how your messages on are about to spread. Don’t be part of a rumor
WhatsApp are received. chain or the vicious cycle that continues to spread

Rule #3: Don’t have conversations false information. Stop for a second, do a quick
with one person in a Group verification on Google or via your friends, and if it
turns out to be beneficial and useful information –
It’s called a Group for a reason. Last thing you want share by all means.
to do is have a singular conversation with one per-
son in that Group. If that’s what you’re doing, take We all have a duty to be responsible with the
it outside the Group and do a 1-to-1 chat. No big information we choose to share.
deal!

CONNECTIONS | 45 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

State-of-the-Art School Website

W W W. I B A D A N G R A M M A R S C H O O L . O R G

(N1 Million)________________

Another IGSOSANA 2018 Project

delivered April 2018

VISIT TODAY AND GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

CONNECTIONS | 46 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

THE MOVERS &
SHAKERS

IREFIN HOUSE

WELCOMES YOU TO RALEIGH, NC

IGSOSANACONGRATULATIONS
on your

11TH ANNUAL CONVENTION

BY MR. MOSES AKIN-JOHNSON

To Stress or Not to Stress? “

YOU DECIDE!

“E Stress is unavoidable. The key is learning how to cope with it.
Discover ways to bolster your stress response and build
resiliency without adding extra time to your schedule.
heart.org

ver notice that a good laugh has a way of lightening your burdens? Or maybe you’ve experienced
a scenario like one of these. Your day feels completely stressful and overwhelming, but then you
coach yourself to step away from the frenzy, collect your thoughts, make a list of what’s going
on– prioritizing what’s important. Has your list ever helped you discover that perhaps your day
is more manageable than it seemed? Or maybe you usually go walking with a friend before you
start your work day. This week seems entirely too busy and stressful to fit in such “frivolities.” But
you decide that instead of skipping it, you’ll go ahead and walk. Afterwards, you notice it was
good for you physically, socially, and emotionally and upon sitting down for the work day, you
actually feel more able to attack the list of tasks.

CONNECTIONS | 48 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

Learn to “Pump the Brakes” on Stress Where do you put yourself now? How do you know when
Laughter, physical activity and organizing your thoughts can you’ve passed the moderate point? Identify for yourself the
be effective stress-management techniques. But something small changes you can detect in your mood as you move up the
as simple as a short break can also be effective. Dr. Robert continuum. This may take a few days of observing yourself, but
Sapolsky, stress expert and neurology professor at Stanford, says if you are like most people, (and chances are good that you are!)
we all need to commit to regular stress management and learn your stress level will climb in a predictable pattern. If you take
how to “pump the brakes” on stress without loading it onto time to learn your emotional cues, you can learn to regulate
other people. Let’s talk about why and how. your stress so that you spend more of your time in the “low
zone” (at numbers 1-5).

The Purpose of Stress But you don’t know how stressful my life is!
Emotions are signals to help us recognize problems. Stress Clearly some people have more stressful environments than
hormones help us fight-or-flee when we are in danger. But our others, and those people will likely pay a toll for it unless they
body’s stress response can become a problem when it constantly learn to manage stress and improve their quality of life. For
signals danger about issues that aren’t necessarily a threat, or it example, the stress of becoming a caregiver often results in
grows to the point of overwhelming our health, well-being or health difficulties and emotional health challenges. If you
clear thinking. are a caregiver, it’s especially important that you learn stress-

Why Practice Stress Management? management skills so that you can keep yourself in the “low
Your mind deserves better than to be loaded zone,” find ways to enjoy your life and allow your caregiving to
down with the never-ending job of worrying!
Some stress can be beneficial and may lead to have moments of satisfaction and joy.
actual problem-solving, but a lot of our stress
is unnecessary and even harmful. Research is “We all need to Step 2: Learn to Live in the Low Zone.
clear that stressed brains do not operate the commit to regular Once you’ve passed the mid-zone mark into
same way as non-stressed brains. John Medina, stress management the high-stress zone, it’s time to take a stress-
Ph.D., director of the Brain Center for Applied and learn how to management moment. Maybe that means that
Learning Research at Seattle Pacific University, “pump the brakes” you call a friend, take a short 5 minute walk
says creativity, productivity, motivation and on stress without outdoors, remind yourself of what you can and
sometimes even your immune system will all loading it onto other cannot change or keep a funny book on hand that
suffer chronic stress. people.” you can visit when you need a laugh. Whatever
works best for you, take the time to bring your
stress level back closer to the “low zone.” Notice
what happens to your body and mind when you
How Do We Learn to Manage Our Stress? take these breaks.

Step 1: Awareness! Learn about your “Low Zone.”
Stress has a way of becoming chronic as the worries of everyday
The Benefits of Low-Zone Living
living weigh us down. Or perhaps you’ve become accustomed The benefits of low zone living are plentiful! You’ll feel more
to stress in your life, and you allow whatever is currently the creative, more alive, and more able to enjoy small moments of
most stressful problem to dictate what you will do each day. happiness. Furthermore, you reserve your “high zone stress
Everyone needs pleasure, productivity and creativity in their responses” for times when it’s more appropriate. When life
lives and chronic stress robs us of these. and death are not on the line, we do not need chart-topping
emotional responses.

Take a look at this continuum: So let’s learn to enjoy the gifts of life and put aside the stresses
whenever we can.

1 I’m creatively and cheerfully engaged in life.
2 I’m relaxed and expect to stay this way.
3–5 I can handle stresses and think of positive solutions to

my challenges.
6–7 I’m moderately irritable, anxious or overwhelmed, and

stresses feel burdensome .
8 My problems seem unsolvable. Many things are irritating

or upsetting me.
9 Help! I’m about to lose it!
10 I have chart-topping negative emotions

CONNECTIONS | 49 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G

Congratulations
IGSOSANA
on your 11th annual
convention
inRaleigh, NC

&Mrs. Omowunmi Awokoya
Family

CONNECTIONS | 50 | W W W. I G S O S A N A . O R G