Issele-Uku: PBGS Old Boys Begin Construction of Corps Members’ Lodge to Sustain Founder’s Legacy

By Patrick Ochei

 

The National Executive of the Pilgrim Baptist Grammar School (PBGS), Issele-Uku Old Boys Association, has commenced the construction of a Corps Members’ Lodge within the school premises, in a move aimed at sustaining the legacy of the institution’s founder, Rev. Dr. Samuel Wadiei Martin.

 

The ground-breaking ceremony, held on Friday, March 20, 2026, followed a courtesy visit to the monarch of the Issele-Uku Kingdom, HRM Agbogidi Obi Nduka. The event was attended by the school principal, Mrs. Peace Ngozi Agbeyeke; Vice Principal (Administration), Mrs. Dibie Bethel Edebiri; and members of the Old Boys Association from various sets.

 

Speaking at the ceremony, the National President of the association, Prince Ugeh Ofordile, expressed delight at witnessing the project’s commencement during his tenure.

 

“I feel highly elated that this ground-breaking is happening during my time as National President, as part of our efforts to give back to our alma mater. This is a historic milestone, and through this project, we are adding value to this academic citadel called PBGS,” he said.

 

He noted that the lodge is part of a broader development plan designed to support corps members posted to the school and enhance the academic environment.

 

“We have conceptualised a sequence of development plans for the school, one of which is this Corps Members’ Lodge to support those deployed here to contribute to the academic growth of our students,” he added.

 

Prince Ofordile also appreciated members of the association for their contributions and appealed for continued support to ensure the successful completion of the project.

 

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Project Committee Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Elvis Oniemola, emphasized the need to preserve and build upon the vision of the school’s founder.

 

He described PBGS as the product of a visionary mission by Rev. S.W. Martin, who was inspired to bring together and educate children from diverse backgrounds, equipping them for future success.

 

Oniemola stressed that the legacy of the founder must not be allowed to fade, especially in light of the school’s current challenges, which he said require urgent collective intervention.

 

Providing background on the association’s recent activities, he explained that efforts to reposition the school gained momentum in 2022 when members began organizing towards meaningful contributions. He noted that the late Engr. Odega, CEO of Orchid Hotel, was elected National President that year but passed away in 2024, after which Prince Ofordile assumed leadership and was later elected substantive president.

 

“We are here to contribute our quota by taking a step towards rebuilding and restoring what Rev. Martin established, which today stands as PBGS,” Oniemola stated.

 

Also speaking, the Chairman of the ground-breaking ceremony and a retired United Nations staff member, Chief Augustine Aghaulor (Class of 1971), urged members to remain steadfast in preserving the school’s legacy.

 

He recalled the high standard of education the institution once offered, noting that the association’s current efforts reflect gratitude for the foundation the school provided.

 

The school principal, Mrs. Peace Ngozi Agbeyeke, commended the Old Boys Association for the initiative and prayed for continued success and resources to complete the project.

 

A corps member serving at the school, Mr. Ezaka Simon Okwudiri, also expressed appreciation for the initiative. He noted that whether or not the project is completed during his service year, it will significantly improve the welfare of future corps members and enhance their contributions to the school.

 

The event was attended by several distinguished alumni, including Engr. Festus Nwaise (Class of 1970), Dr. Shedrack Omumu (Class of 1972), Prince Ignatius Isom Nwoko (1971), Chief Augustine Aghaulor (1971), Mr. Dike Augustine Nwaofude (1971), Prince Ugeh Ofordile as the National President, Mr. Ayodele Elvis Oniemola as the BoT Chairman, Mr. Okey Fejokwu (1981) as the Welfare Officer, Arc. Ojeah Leonard, Engr. Andy Iwebelua, Dr. Osita Monye as the Secretary, Barr. Tony Nwaokwu (1979) as the Legal Officer, Barr. Lee Nweike Onwochei (1981) as the Treasurer, Mr. Fidel Nwaojei as the PRO, and Mr. Felix Nwamumu, among others from home and abroad.

 

The proposed project is a six-room facility, with each unit self-contained, featuring a kitchen and toilet. The building will also include a perimeter fence, emergency exit, and additional amenities aimed at providing a comfortable and secure living environment for corps members posted to the school.