By Emmanuel Alao

St. Anthony Grammar School Esure Ijebu Imushin as part of their one-week long 70th anniversary celebration, had the Holy Mass which is the summit of the celebration on 19th December 2024 at the school Chapel at about 10:10am.

The host and the Bishop of the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode; Most Rev. Francis Obafemi ADESINA was present in person, together with the Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan Archdiocese; Most Rev. Felix Alaba Job, 11 Priests, Rev. Sisters, Old students’ Association President, Alumni, staff members and students of the school (Private and Public)

The homilist who is also an Alumnus; Very Rev. Fr. Gabriel Oresegun admonished everyone on how it’s important to give praise to God for His blessings on the school and all the Alumni. He narrated how the school has achieved a lot in their 70 years of history and how the school has trained them to become who they are today.

The Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan Archdiocese in his remarks narrated with wisdom and storytelling skills, how the school started from cradle. He explained his relationship with both the first principal (Fr. Anthony Sanusi) and the Parish priest (Fr. John Aggey) and how they both worked tirelessly for the establishment of SANTOS. For him, the founding fathers should never be forgotten.

The Bishop of the Diocese and the Successor of the founding fathers ; Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina gave some words of encouragement. He recognized a member of the first set Mr. John Olusola Fanoiki. According to the Bishop, “Old students should never forget their root and their heritage as a Catholic institution.” He said good things have always emerged even from the least expected places as SANTOS located in this Ijebu town of Imushin has made remarkable breakthroughs. Facing the old students the Bishop said “Wake up from your slumber. Since we’re part of the problems then we must be part of the solution to the problem. Giving back to the Catholic School that nurtured you should not be a big deal just it is done in all other parts of the world. The Catholic Church does not segregate as we accept Catholics, non-Catholics and Muslims. You must therefore look inward and improve on the Catholic values in the school. This is how the present students can be inspired by you”

The Principal of St. Anthony Grammar School Private; Fr. Anthony Adetayo introduced the dignitaries to the worshipping congregation and recognized the old students present.

There was reception of award for the best students of last session as sponsored by the Aggey Foundation. Everyone danced forward for thanksgiving while group photographs were taken at the end of the Mass. With its rich history and strong alumni network, the school is poised to continue producing outstanding individuals who make a positive impact in their communities.