The 1990 alumni of Abbi Grammar School, known as the Unique Nobles 90 Association, on Thursday donated educational materials worth over one million naira to their alma mater and its sister institution, Abbi Comprehensive Girls Secondary School in Ndokwa West, Delta State.
The donation, which included textbooks, notebooks, chalk, and learning supplies, is part of the group’s commitment to supporting educational development in their community.
At a formal presentation ceremony, Nobles 90 Chairman, Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, addressed the students, emphasizing that education remains crucial for success and is far from being a “scam” as some may suggest.
“Education is a key equalizer in society,” Onitsha remarked, “and we want each of you to recognize its value as you build your future.”
Representatives of the Abbi Grammar Old-Student Association (AGOSA), including Barr. Nelson Okuzor and Sir Godsday Owetemu, were present to witness the event and applauded the efforts of Nobles 90 to the development of the school, urging other sets to key into such a move to reposition the school.
Speaking at the event, Sir Godsday Owetemu, AGOSA’s home-based chairman, commended Nobles 90’s efforts and called on other alumni sets to follow suit, noting that “government alone cannot meet all the school’s needs.”
Members of Nobles 90 who accompanied the chairman, included the Vice Chairman, Ogbuefi Ibobo Godfrey, past chairman, Mr Samuel Obije, Assistant Secretary, Mrs Gladys Oshilimi, Assistant Fin. Sec., Mr Ugwu Ikechukwu, PRO, Mr. Nelson Onyinobode, Mrs Faith Owetem, Ineh Chukudi and Ndidi Smart.
The donated materials included the latest editions of Mathematics, English, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry textbooks for Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3), alongside branded notebooks and writing materials.
Thirty-five JSS3 students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds also received individual copies of Mathematics and English textbooks to aid their studies.
Onitsha recalled the rigorous but formative experience of attending Abbi Grammar School, noting, “We started here in 1984, and the resilience and determination we developed in this school have driven us to become successful in various fields.
“Our set has produced two professors, multiple PhD holders, business owners, and professionals who excel in their careers.” He urged students to prioritize learning, remain disciplined, and see education as a foundation for future success.”
The association also committed to further supporting the students by offering incentives, such as covering WAEC and JAMB fees for top-performing students, to encourage academic excellence. “Take advantage of the resources now available in the library, and let your dedication to your studies be evident,” Onitsha advised.
At Abbi Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, additional educational materials were presented to the top ten JSS3 students, while branded notebooks were distributed to JSS1 and JSS2 students respectively.
The principals of both schools expressed gratitude for the support. Mr. Monday Oshilim, Principal of Abbi Grammar School, commended the alumni for their generosity, adding, “It’s heartwarming that years after graduating, this group remembers the importance of supporting education in our community. These textbooks are invaluable resources for our students and the school library.”
Mr. Ogume Gabriel, Vice Principal of Abbi Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, also thanked the Nobles 90 Association, emphasizing the importance of alumni contributions to educational advancement. “I want to appreciate this unique body for finding it necessary to carry Abbi Girls along and extending their hands to our school, even when they graduated from Abbi Grammar School.”
Both principals called on further support from the government and alumni to provide desks and perimeter fencing for the schools.
The highlight of the event was the official handover of textbooks to the school libraries, marking a significant step towards improving learning resources for students in Abbi.
