Aquinas College Akure Rolls Out Diamond Legacy as ACAOSA Marks 75th Anniversary with Landmark Projects, Sports, and Educational Initiatives
The historic Aquinas College, Akure, one of Nigeria’s foremost citadels of academic excellence and moral discipline, came alive with colourful celebrations as its Old Students Association (ACAOSA) commemorated the institution’s 75th Anniversary with the donation of numerous developmental projects, educational support programmes, sporting activities, quiz competitions, career talks, and other impactful initiatives.
The week-long celebration showcased the enduring bond between the prestigious institution and its alumni, while reaffirming their commitment to preserving the school’s enviable legacy for generations to come.
Speaking with Democrat News Magazine at the school’s Sports Pavilion on Thursday, June 25, 2026, the Global President of the Aquinas College Old Students Association (ACAOSA), Otunba Sola Adewumi, described the anniversary as a unique opportunity to reunite old students from across the globe and inspire them to contribute meaningfully to the growth of their alma mater.
He noted that Aquinas College laid the solid foundation upon which many of its graduates have built successful careers and distinguished lives. According to him, the association deliberately mobilised its members to give back to the institution through the donation of several legacy projects and programmes that would positively impact both the school and its students.
Otunba Adewumi further explained that the anniversary celebration was carefully designed to enrich the academic and personal development of students. He disclosed that the programme featured an inter-school quiz competition, career talks delivered by accomplished professionals, sporting activities, mentorship sessions, and other educational engagements involving students from different secondary schools across Ondo State.
He stressed that these initiatives were aimed at inspiring excellence, leadership, discipline, and a culture of giving back among the younger generation.
Also speaking with Democrat News Magazine, the Co-Chairman of the 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, a retired Colonel of the Nigerian Army, expressed immense joy over the impressive turnout and enthusiastic participation of students throughout the celebration. He described the anniversary as a memorable and fulfilling event, noting that the planning committee intentionally packaged activities capable of shaping the lives, character, and future aspirations of the students.
He added that the celebrations would culminate with a grand Gala Night on Saturday, followed by a Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
In his remarks, the Principal of Aquinas College, Mr. Tai Adebowale Adelusi, disclosed that the anniversary programme commenced with the official reception of the Global President and members of the ACAOSA executive.
He urged the students to cultivate a strong sense of responsibility, uphold the noble traditions of the college, and always remember the importance of giving back to their alma mater whenever they become successful in life. According to him, the values instilled by the institution should inspire them to become worthy ambassadors of Aquinas College wherever they find themselves.
Mr. Adelusi also commended the Ondo State Government for its sustained investment in the education sector, acknowledging the various improvements recorded in public schools across the state.
He, however, emphasized that government alone cannot shoulder the enormous responsibility of educational development, applauding the Aquinas College Old Students Association for its remarkable commitment, generosity, and unwavering support towards the physical and academic advancement of the institution. He described the alumni’s interventions as invaluable contributions that would continue to benefit generations of students.
The 75th Anniversary celebration of Aquinas College, Akure, ultimately stood as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of unity, gratitude, and service that defines the institution. Through generous donations, impactful educational programmes, sporting excellence, and renewed alumni engagement, the celebration not only honoured the school’s rich heritage but also laid a stronger foundation for its future. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the legacy of excellence established over the past seven and a half decades would continue to flourish, inspiring present and future students to uphold the cherished ideals of Aquinas College.