Back to School with Pride and Purpose: FOGA Members Relive Golden Days, Applaud Amb. Dr. Omobola Ojoge’s Inspiring Initiative
Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School, Akure, came alive with colour, laughter and heartfelt memories this week as members of the Fiwasaye Old Girls Association (FOGA) returned to their alma mater for the 2026 Back to School initiative.
The memorable programme, held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, within the school premises, drew a large gathering of eminent Nigerians who once passed through the corridors of the prestigious institution. Dressed proudly in their former school uniforms, the old students recreated their youthful days while sharing stories of discipline, excellence and lifelong friendships formed at Fiwasaye.
Speaking with Democrat News Magazine, Chief Dr. Mrs. Kosemani Kolawole, the first female Head of Service in Ondo State, described Fiwasaye as a place that moulded her character and leadership capacity.
According to her, “Uprightness and excellence were the virtues I gained here. After Fiwasaye, I moved to Oyemekun Grammar School for my HNC, where I became Senior Girl among over 700 boys and just 20 girls. My confidence was built here.”
She recalled her tenure as Head of Service, noting that her team saved Ondo State over ₦662 million monthly through Primary School Leaving Certificate verification and uncovered more than 6,000 workers without appointment letters alongside 4,000 ghost workers.
“These achievements were possible because of the courage and discipline Fiwasaye instilled in me,” she added.
Also sharing her experience, Pastor Tolani Falana (née Folorunso), of the 1984–1990 set, said the occasion felt like a personal birthday celebration.
“My father, a farmer, was always proud of Fiwasaye and would take me around the neighbourhood asking me to speak English,” she recalled with a smile.
Now a pastor and NGO founder supporting underprivileged pregnant women, she affirmed that the values she carries today were shaped by her years at Fiwasaye.
Mrs. Angela Mola Ajakaye highlighted love, support and unity of purpose as the enduring strength of FOGA.
The Principal of the school, Amb. Dr. Omobola Ojoge, explained that the initiative, which began two years ago, was designed to inspire current students through real-life success stories.
“Because of last year’s testimonies, this year people came from all walks of life. Our goal is to motivate our students and enhance their emotional wellbeing by letting them see living examples of success,” she said.
Mrs. Oyeyemi Kayode Ojo (née Ajayi), 1982–1987 set, fondly recalled lessons of discipline and diligence, narrating how she once hawked bread after school to support her mother in paying school fees.
Another old student, Mrs. Kemisola Soga-Ogunmola (née Alake), 1987 set, shared warm memories of Valentine flowers and the communal love that defined life at Fiwasaye, noting that unity remains a heritage passed down from the founding mothers.
A major highlight of this year’s programme was the formal adoption of Mrs. Olajumoke Ekpo-Jide into FOGA. Speaking with Democrat News Magazine, she expressed gratitude for the honour.
“I began my teaching career at Fiwasaye in 1995 and served for 13 and a half years before returning as Vice Principal for four years. Being adopted into FOGA by my amiable boss, Amb. Dr. Omobola Ojoge, makes me feel deeply blessed,” she said.
She concluded with a message to youths: “Serve with all your heart—your labour will surely speak for you.”
The 2026 Back to School celebration once again reaffirmed Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School as a cradle of excellence, character and service—proving that the impact of quality education truly lasts a lifetime.