Our Esteemed Principal, Baba Chief Joseph.O. Opatola,
His friends, families and delegation from Awe.
Our former Principal Mr. Adesiyan and his families,
Families of the Revered Founder, Chief Gabriel O. Falegan,
Distinguished Guests,
Chairman of the Chief Opatola Celebration Planning Committee, Elder Tajudeen Adebakin,
Members of the planning committee,
My distinguished alumni and awardees,
Chairmen of all the sets present,
Former senior prefects present,
The current principals of our alma mater, Mrs. Subuloye and others,
Current teachers, current Senior prefects,
Ladies and gentlemen
It is with great joy and pride that I stand before you today as we gather to celebrate the legacy of Timi Agbale Grammar School, and the giants upon whose shoulders we stand. Today is a day of reflection, recognition, and renewal—reflection on the rich history that has shaped us, recognition of the remarkable individuals who have contributed to our great institution, and renewal of our commitment to the future of this school that has given us so much.
First and foremost, we are here to honour an individual whose dedication, leadership, and passion for education have left an indelible mark on this school—our former principal, Chief J.O. Opatola. Today, the children he supervised between 1975 and 1980 have grown to become successful men and women in their chosen fields, contributing their quota to national development.
For a very long time, precisely since 2011, members of this association have been wondering where was Baba Opatola. There was no time some of us would not mention the glowing contributions and stern discipline you instilled in us. Right before you, Baba, in this very hallowed assembly hall, we all stood before you every morning for morning devotion. Usually, the hall would be noisy as students would be exchanging pleasantries of a new day. Prefects and teachers would stand here but the noise would continue. But immediately Baba Opatola stepped in and walked to the stage, everywhere went silent. I remember many of us would say Baba Opatola nlo nkan.
I remember another experience at Baptist High School, Abepe in 1977 or 78. We had gone to play football on their pitch and defeated them 2-0. Usually, fracas would take over. Abepe students rushed us and Agbale would not accept that. We retaliated. I remember Baba Opatola walked to the middle of the field and shouted Abepe, go this way. Agbale, go out of this school. And know what, the whole field went quiet and every one went his ways. It made us believe Baba nlo nkan. Baba Opatola had a great deputy in Mrs Falegan, another school administrator who would not suffer fools gladly. The combination of these two great people left in us some greatness that made us what we are today.
Baba, this is our return of gratitude. Being grateful helps us feel positive emotions, relive happy memories, and improve our overall mental health. Baba, your work was never in vain. I stand before you today as the president of Timi Agbale Alumni Association, filled with deep gratitude and a heart overflowing with appreciation.
Baba, you took care of us. You ensured that we not only excelled academically but that we understood the value of integrity, hard work, and respect. Your words of guidance were like seeds planted in our hearts, and today, I stand before you, one of many fruits of your labor. You often reminded us to aim high and be thorough. These words have stayed with us till date. You taught us that success is not an accident, but the result of deliberate effort, resilience, and determination. And indeed, many of us are now living out that future we once prepared for under your watchful eye.
As we reflect on the impact you have had on our journey, we realize that words may never be enough to express the depth of our appreciation. The generality of the alumni came together and agreed to honour you while you are alive. Of whet benefit would it be for us to honour you when you are gone in great old age? Today, this assembly hall, where you stood before us every morning is hereby named after you, Chief J.O Opatola Assembly Hall.
As we officially name this Hall after Baba Opatola today, it is not only a symbol of the countless hours he poured into shaping the minds and character of students, but also a reminder of the discipline, excellence, and service he instilled in each of us. Baba Opatola, as we fondly called you, you built not only a school but a community of learners, leaders, and changemakers. We owe you a debt of gratitude that can never fully be repaid.
Baba, we sincerely hope this simple gesture of recognition shows that the lessons you imparted have not been forgotten. They live on in all of us who had the privilege of being under your care. May your legacy of excellence continue to inspire future generations, and may you always take pride in the lives you have helped to shape.
In the same breath, it is only fitting that we also honour Chief G.O. Falegan, the founder of this great institution. The school building is hereby named after him as Chief G.O Falegan Legacy Building. The naming of the school building after him is a testament to the visionary leadership that birthed Timi Agbale Grammar School. His legacy lives on through the generations of students who have passed through these halls, and we will continue to uphold the values he cherished.
Our celebration today would not be complete without acknowledging Mr. S. A. Adesiyan, the most recent former principal whose leadership continues to impact the lives of students and alumni alike. He worked tirelessly with the Old Students to achieve the renewal of the Falegan legacy building, the installation of the laboratories, the establishment of the yearly awards for brilliant students, the reintroduction of the interhouse sports, the hosting of the 60th anniversary, the establishment of the proposed ICT center, preservation of the territorial integrity of the school ,and liaising with the executive of the old students all the time on issues pertaining to the school. His commitment to upholding the high standards set by his predecessors is commendable, and we are deeply grateful for his service.
Baba, in addition to these outstanding principals, we are proud to recognise several distinguished alumni whose contributions to the school and the wider community have brought honour to the Timi Agbale name. You have carried the torch of excellence, proving that the education we received here is not just a foundation but a springboard to greater heights. Your generosity ensures that the doors of opportunity remain open for future generations.
The awardees are:
1. Alhaji Yahaya Bakare
2. Mr Wasiu Olaniyi
3. Dr. Kunle Fawole
4. Alhaji Tunde Fadaunsi
5. Dr. Munir Durojaiye
6. Rev. Femi Adesina
7. Alhaja Omowumi Bello
Awardees in the Diaspora are…
1. Mr. Tunde Olasupo (London)
2. Mr. Musediq Salisu (London)
3. Mr. Bashiru Adebayo (USA)
4. Mr. Hakeem Nasiru (USA)
Posthumous Award
1. Late Mrs. Iyabo Tijani
However, while today is a day of celebration, it is also a call to action for all alumni. The strength of any institution lies in the collective will of its people. We are all beneficiaries of the hard work and sacrifices made by those who came before us. Now, it is our turn. I urge every one of us, whether you left these grounds years ago or just recently, to continue giving back, not only financially but with your time, your expertise, and your commitment. The future of Timi Agbale Grammar School depends on our collective effort.
Let us remember that the greatness of this school is not measured by the bricks and mortar, or by the names we inscribe on buildings, but by the lives we touch and the legacy we leave behind. Baba Opatola, Chief Falegan, and Mr. Adesiyan have set a high standard, and it is our responsibility to carry that mantle forward.
As we honour these legends today, let their stories be a reminder to us all: hard work, dedication, and a sense of purpose can transform not just individuals, but entire communities. Let us strive to embody these values in our daily lives and in our support of this great institution.
Thank you all for your dedication, and may Timi Agbale Grammar School continue to thrive for generations to come.
Thank you.
President, Timi Agbale Alumni Association.
* SPEECH BY DR. BOLA ADEWARA, PRESIDENT TIMI AGBALE ALUMNI AT THE CELEBRATION OF CHIEF J.O. OPATOLA AT THE SCHOOL HALL, ON SEPTEMBER 28, 2024.