Handover Ceremony Address by outgoing President of Government Science Secondary School Okedayo (GSSSOK) Alumni – Engr. Mike Bertola Ibitomihi.
It is my profound honour and joy to welcome you all to this handover ceremony, an epoch-making milestone in the proud history of GSSSOK Alumni.
Today, we gather not merely to mark a change of leadership, but to celebrate the continuity of vision, the strength of our collective journey, and the promise of a brighter future as we usher in a new Executive under the capable leadership of Dr. Gideon Tolufashe and his team.
Permit me, therefore, to take us briefly down memory lane, to reflect on the journey we have shared and the stewardship we have undertaken over the past six years for most of the outgoing Exco members, and three years for a few others.
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This reflection is not only a record of what has been done, but also a testament to the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering commitment that have brought us to this defining moment.
In the fourth quarter of 2019, the urgency to formalize the GSSSOK Alumni Association became undeniable. The school was grappling with challenges brought on by inadequate state funding, and we recognized that beyond supporting the institution itself, an Alumni body could serve as a powerful platform to help members grow, thrive, and fulfill their dreams.
Through the partnership of Engineer John Femi Oloworishe and other distinguished Alumni, we midwifed the birth of GSSSOK Alumni. By December 2019, I was elected as the inaugural President of this nascent body. With the overwhelming support of Alumni for me and my team, we immediately set to work, determined to fulfill the mandate of the association enshrined in our motto: ‘Deep Roots, Strong Wings.’
The vision of Deep Roots was to strengthen GSSSOK into an institution of excellence, where current students could develop firm foundations for a great future. The mission of Strong Wings was to empower Alumni to soar high in life, equipped with opportunities, networks, and support. These twin ideals; “Deep roots and Strong wings” became the compass that guided every decision, every sacrifice, and every achievement throughout my six years of leadership.
Just as we settled into office, the unexpected storm of Covid‑19 struck in 2020. Yet, despite the disruption, we found our way around it and pressed forward with determination to pursue our goals and objectives. The year 2021 brought personal trials for me, as I lost loved ones in quick succession. This deeply affected my personal commitment, but the strength and dedication of my fellow Exco members ensured that the journey continued.
By 2022, I returned in full force to provide the much‑needed leadership, and at the close of our first tenure, the association graciously re‑elected me and most of my team for a second term. Shortly after resuming office, by mid‑2023, the economic reforms introduced by President Tinubu sought to correct the unsustainable path the nation was treading. While these reforms brought hope, they also came with unavoidable pains and a severe economic downturn.
This reality greatly affected funding for the association, and as we hand over today, the country is yet to fully recover. Through all these storms; pandemic, personal loss, and economic hardship, we stood firm, carried by resilience, sacrifice, and the collective spirit of service. These challenges did not deter us; rather, they refined us and gave deeper meaning to our stewardship.
It is easy to find excuses for inaction and non-performance, yet in spite of the many challenges we faced, we are proud to have recorded modest but meaningful achievements over the past six years.
Our very first project, the refurbishment of the GSSSOK signpost was a symbolic ‘low-hanging fruit’ that announced the arrival of a new Alumni body ready to serve. Soon after, we registered the association with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), giving it legal recognition and a firm foundation in line with Nigeria’s rules and regulations.
From there, we embarked on an audacious but necessary project: the construction of a modern science laboratory for the school.
This journey began in April 2022, and though inflation and funding constraints slowed progress by 2023 with building costs more than doubling we pressed on. By sheer determination, we advanced the project to roofing level. The structure now stands roofed, awaiting windows, doors, and finishing. Though I had hoped to see it completed within our tenure, I am confident that with renewed Alumni support and contributions, the new Executive will carry this vision to completion in their first term.
Beyond our own direct projects, our administration also facilitated notable developments through goodwill and nurtured relationships.
An ultra-modern ICT laboratory was initiated and completed by Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC). Hon. Arc Idris Salman, Member of the House of Representatives of Kabba/Bunu Ijumu Federal Constituency, generously built classroom blocks and provided solar-powered lights for the school. On this note, I must recognize the significant contributions of Mrs. Joke Atte and Alumnus Engr. Prince Godwin Oloruntoba, whose efforts were instrumental in achieving these milestones respectively.
Beyond bricks and mortar projects, we also invested in the ‘software’ of education; human capital. Recognizing the acute shortage of qualified teaching staff, particularly in science subjects, we launched the Teaching Support Vanguard (TSV). This initiative was born out of the collective commitment of TSV members, each contributing a minimum of ₦1,000 monthly, to ensure that students did not suffer from the gaps in staffing.
Through this shared sacrifice, the Teaching Support Vanguard (TSV) successfully bridged critical teaching gaps in GSSSOK. It stands as living proof that when Alumni unite around a common vision, we can provide not only infrastructure, but also the very lifeblood of education; knowledge, mentorship, and inspiration. This initiative reminds us that true empowerment is not measured in buildings alone, but in the minds, we nurture and the futures we shape.
Annual Lifeskill coaching workshop is one of the highlights of our administration, it is an annual program for GSSSOK Senior Secondary School students sponsored by MBI Foundation, and it is designed to inspire and equip them with essential life skills, guidance on courses of study, career insights, and other relevant topics. A key highlight is the participation of alumni, who share their personal stories to motivate and encourage the students.
Every October 5th, on Teacher’s Day, our administration ensured that the celebration carried true meaning for the teachers of GSSSOK, both past and present. We made it a tradition to honour and appreciate them, recognizing their invaluable role in shaping lives and futures. The celebrations took different forms, ranging from heartfelt social media tributes to more elaborate gestures, where students, through the Alumni Association, sent gifts to their favourite teachers.
In every expression, the goal was the same: to remind our teachers that their sacrifices and dedication are deeply cherished, and that their impact continues to echo across generations.
Speech and Prize Giving Day Awards is another brilliant initiative we have executed flawlessly and proud of, through this initiative, we successfully mobilized resources from alumni to present various awards to students.
These awards span across academics, leadership, sports, and other areas of excellence, making them a lifeline for the annual Speech Giving Day. They have become a powerful motivator, encouraging students to work hard and look forward to the recognition that comes with winning.
Importantly, the awards are also extended to school teachers, serving as a source of encouragement and appreciation for their dedication. This dual focus on both students and teachers has strengthened the culture of excellence within the school community and deepened alumni impact.
These programs stand as a testament to our belief that true empowerment goes beyond buildings; it is about equipping minds and shaping futures.
We came up with strong wing committee under the leadership of our incoming President, Dr. Gideon Tolufashe who passionately led the committee to develop Alumni’s wings to fly, particularly in the pursuit of higher degrees and advanced opportunities.
We organised seminars/webinars to assist Alumni, this mission has already borne fruit. Through the programme, one of our alumni successfully secured a scholarship to a U.S. university for his Master Program and at the verge of commencing his PhD, this is just one of the examples who was gracious enough to maintain contact, we believe there are others who secured admissions, and jobs through the regular information we provided who didn’t deem it fit to acknowledge it and contact the exco.
We have also extended emergency support and funding to students in tertiary institutions who are facing financial difficulties to keep their dream alive.
Our administration was people focused; we made it our tradition to celebrate members’ milestones especially birthdays and wedding anniversaries as a way of strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of belonging within the association. These celebrations remind us that beyond our collective goals, we also value the personal journeys of each member.
In December 2022, we organised the first Reunion for GSSSOK Alumni that covers all entire old students and not at set levels. Cityconnect, SchoolConnect, & Professional Connect were some of achievements at various stages that did not fully realise their potential. Abuja Connect managed to meet once, while others like Lagosconnect, Kabbaconnect, Lokoja Connect could not.
We also launched the first SSKA Magazine, where we highlighted relevant information. Our last project as we round up, is the School and Alumni website project, which has been in development, is now in its final stages. We are optimistic that it will be fully launched by February, providing a dynamic platform to strengthen communication, showcase achievements, and connect the wider GSSSOK community.
In spite of the severe paucity of funds, I am proud to affirm that every service rendered and every good procured during our tenure has been fully settled, leaving no outstanding debts. This achievement was not born of abundance, but of sacrifice, discipline, and the unwavering commitment of the outgoing Exco, men and women who gave not only their time and talent, but also their personal resources to sustain the vision of this Alumni body.
We were further strengthened by the generosity of a few noteworthy Alumni and friends of the school, who at different times stepped forward to contribute. Together, this spirit of selflessness and shared responsibility ensured that the Alumni Association remained debt‑free, transparent, and true to its mission. It is a legacy of integrity and sacrifice that we proudly hand over to the new leadership.
As of December 31st, 2025, the association’s account balance stands at approximately ₦1,810,492, a testament to prudent stewardship and transparent management. This debt‑free position is more than a financial statement it is a legacy of integrity, sacrifice, and resilience that we hand over with pride to the incoming leadership.
These achievements remind us that progress is not always about speed or abundance, but about vision, sacrifice, and the collective will to keep moving forward.
As we bow out, we take pride in the modest yet meaningful achievements recorded despite the many challenges we faced. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us, offering support in one form or another. To those who entrusted us with their resources, I am proud to affirm that every naira was judiciously applied for the good of the Alumni body and the school.
No member of my Exco ever served for personal gain, and there was never room for misappropriation of funds. Our service was purely voluntary driven by altruism, sacrifice, and a shared vision to uplift GSSSOK and empower its Alumni. This spirit of integrity and selflessness is the true legacy we leave behind.
And without sounding boastful, it must be acknowledged that the bulk of the funds that sustained the association throughout my tenure came from Exco members themselves. In addition to giving their time and talent, they also gave of their treasure, investing personal resources to keep the Alumni body moving forward. It is this spirit of sacrifice and devotion that has carried us to this level, and it is this same spirit we hope will continue to inspire future leaders. I encourage more Alumni join in funding the association activities through annual due and special project donation.
If, in the course of our tenure whether through my leadership as President or the collective service of the Exco we have inadvertently offended anyone or made decisions that may be judged as poor choices, we sincerely ask for your understanding and forgiveness. Please know that none of those decisions were ever taken for personal gain or aggrandizement. Every action was guided by the sincere desire to serve the Alumni body and advance its vision. Our administration was rooted in pure altruism, sacrifice, and commitment to the greater good of GSSSOK and its community
I must sincerely commend the Electoral Committee, ably led by Engr. Oladapo Bolufawi and his dedicated team; Engr Michael Medashe, and Arch Fehinti Ehalaye, for conducting a smooth, transparent, and rancour‑free election. Their integrity and diligence ensured that capable hands were elected to lead, and it is with pride and confidence that we now hand over the baton of leadership of this noble Alumni body to them. This seamless transition is a testament to the maturity of our association and the strength of our collective vision.
To my fellow Exco who served with me whether in the first tenure, the second tenure, or both I extend my deepest gratitude. Thank you for the countless sacrifices, the sleepless nights, the dedication, and the unwavering commitment you gave to this association. Truly, your labour of love shall not be in vain; it shall be abundantly rewarded.
Together, we have written a chapter of service and sacrifice in the history of GSSSOK Alumni, and I am proud to have walked this journey alongside you. May the seeds you have sown in faith, integrity, and selflessness continue to bear fruit in your lives and in the generations of Alumni yet to come.
As I begin to round up, I return all glory to Almighty God, who enabled and empowered us to achieve the milestones we have recounted. Without His guidance, we are nothing. We humbly acknowledge ourselves as mere pencils in His hand, instruments through which He has written a small but meaningful chapter in the annals of GSSSOK Alumni.
May His grace continue to guide this noble association, strengthen the new leadership, and inspire every member to greater heights. And may the story He is writing through us grow ever richer, ever brighter, and ever more impactful in the years to come
Lastly, it is both an honour and a joy to witness this smooth transition from the current Executive to a new team of leaders. Leadership renewal is a sign of growth, continuity, and the enduring strength of our alumni community.
As outgoing exco our commitment to the success of this Alumni Body remains steadfast, and I join all members in rooting for your success.
Thank you for Listening
Yours Sincerely
Mike Bertola Ibitomihi
GSSSOK Alumni President (2019 -2026).
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 18TH 2026)
