Oyemekun Grammar School Celebrates 2025 Valedictory Service in Grand Style As Oluyide Honours Outstanding Teachers, Students
The air was filled with joy and gratitude on Sunday, 9th November 2025, as the historic citadel of excellence—Oyemekun Grammar School, Akure—hosted its much-anticipated Valedictory Service for the outgoing Class of 2025. It was a day of colour, culture, awards, emotions, and deep appreciation for academic excellence and moral uprightness, as over 427 students marked the end of a significant chapter in their lives.
The event took place within the iconic premises of the school and the St. Andrew’s Church Hall, heralding the official transition of these young minds into the world beyond secondary education. It was not just a celebration—it was a powerful reminder of the school’s legacy under the visionary leadership of its award-winning Principal, Mr. Akoni Oodua Adeniyi Oluyide.
The ceremony opened with a solemn prayer led by Mrs. Fajimi, followed by the official presentation of the 427 graduating students by the dedicated Mrs. Mary Bolaji Ojo. The mood was spiritual and reflective, setting the tone for what was to become an unforgettable occasion in the life of the school.
In a stirring Speech from a Trailblazing Leader, Mr. Adeniyi Oluyide expressed immense pride in the graduating, class, charging them to hold dear the values instilled in them—discipline, punctuality, resilience, commitment, and the pursuit of excellence. He called upon them to become ambassadors of light in a world yearning for positive change.
The principal extended deep appreciation to parents and guardians for trusting the school with their children. He lauded the Ondo State Government, under the amiable Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for the payment of WAEC fees—an act that lifted burdens and illuminated futures. He also commended the Ministry of Education, led by Prof. Ajibefun and Dr. Akindele Ige, for their unwavering support for quality education.
Special recognition was given to the tireless teachers and subject coordinators who nurtured the 2025 graduates. Mr. Oluyide acknowledged their unwavering dedication, stating, “You are true heroes, and I owe you a debt of gratitude for a job well done.”
The 2024/2025 academic session witnessed unprecedented development at the school. Among them were: construction of perimeter fencing (Leo and Egbe Axes), continuous payment of PTA staff, renovation of the administrative block and chemistry lab, procurement of a multi-purpose sound system, academic rewards for over 100 students, a solar-powered borehole, and installation of CCTV cameras.
The school also embarked on monumental projects such as the ongoing multi-purpose hall and ultra-modern storey classrooms, facilitated by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, and the construction of a cricket court. These infrastructural strides reflect the school’s commitment to holistic student development.
The cultural troupe delivered a vibrant performance that highlighted Nigeria’s rich heritage. The school brigade and Man ‘O’ War put up exhilarating parades, adding a touch of pageantry to the ceremony. Indeed, it was a fusion of education and culture at its finest.
Teachers who went above and beyond in their duties were honoured. Notable awardees included Sunday Olorunfemi, Mrs. Kehinde Omoparola, Mrs. Gbenga Obaweya, Mrs. Alayo, Adekunle Busayo Ola, and Mrs. Joshua Faith Alaba—a testament to the school’s appreciation for excellence in pedagogy.
The spotlight also fell on outstanding students such as Nwosunaya Treasure, Bello Temiloluwa, Akerele Temitope Israel, Nweze David, Imole Adefemi Oluwatomisin, and several others, who were rewarded with cash, prizes, awards, and scholarships—fuel for even greater achievements ahead.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the students presented gifts to their teachers and unveiled a special magazine they produced—“Oyemekun Echoes”—revived under this administration. It was a moment that captured the bond between staff and students in the most beautiful way.
The Global President of Oyemekun Grammar School Old Students Association (OGSA), Dr. Niyi Ijogun, delivered a powerful address, congratulating the graduating students and presenting welfare packages to all staff. He called on the newly inducted alumni to be torchbearers of the school’s values.
In a goodwill message, the Principal of CAC Grammar School, Akure, praised the leadership of Oyemekun Grammar School for a befitting ceremony and prayed for greater heights, further underscoring the school’s revered status in Ondo State’s educational landscape.
As the event drew to a close, students, teachers, guests, and alumni took to the floor for a joyful thanksgiving dance, moving to the rhythm of accomplishment and unity. It was a celebration not just of academic excellence, but of a living legacy that continues to shine bright.
The celebration drew notable figures from across the state and beyond, including Zonal Education Officer Mr. Henry, alumni representative Mr. Timilehin Oni, VP Admin Roseline Ojo, Director of Account Fapohunda Fisayo, Mrs. Gbenga Obaweya, Mr. Segun Akanmu (GM Radio Nigeria, Ogbomoso), Mrs. Obafisoye, and the distinguished Dr. Theophilus Toyin Olobayo.