Alumni Launch Ambitious ₦600 Million Plan To Restore James Welch Grammar School
Alumni Association Unveils Major Development Drive
THE James Welch Grammar School Old Boys Association (JWGSOBA) has unveiled an ambitious ₦600 million fundraising and development campaign aimed at rehabilitating critical infrastructure at the school and ensuring a memorable celebration of its 70th anniversary in 2027.
The initiative was announced by the National President of the Association, Engr. Fred Edafioghor, during a Special General Meeting held at the school premises in Emevor, Delta State.
According to him, the administration intends to mobilise support from government intervention agencies, corporate organisations, distinguished alumni, class sets, branches, and other stakeholders to reposition the institution for future generations.
Strong Alumni Participation Signals Renewed Commitment
Edafioghor praised the impressive turnout recorded at the meeting, noting that participants joined both physically and virtually through Zoom. He described the hybrid format as one of the most successful gatherings in the Association’s history, reflecting a growing sense of responsibility among old boys towards the welfare of their alma mater.
He said the leadership remains committed to a vision-driven agenda centred on institutional strengthening, sustainable development, and the restoration of the school’s historic reputation.
Constitution Reform Receives Unanimous Approval
One of the major decisions reached during the meeting was the ratification of the Association’s revised constitution.
Members carefully reviewed the document clause by clause before adopting it unanimously. A key feature of the new constitution is the formal recognition of class sets as an integral component of the Association’s structure.
The reform was widely welcomed by members, who described it as a significant step toward broader participation, inclusiveness, and stronger alumni engagement.
₦600 Million Fundraising Blueprint Unveiled
The Association also presented its first comprehensive annual budget in recent years, projecting revenue of ₦135.82 million against proposed expenditure of ₦189.16 million.
Beyond the budget, Edafioghor unveiled a detailed fundraising strategy designed to generate ₦600 million before February 2027.
The funds, he explained, will support extensive rehabilitation projects across the school and finance activities marking the institution’s platinum jubilee celebrations.
He urged alumni to support the initiative through donations and legacy projects that would leave lasting impacts on the school community.
Anglican Diocese Pledges Additional Support
Speaking at the event, the Proprietor of the school and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Oleh, Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, commended the renewed enthusiasm among old boys.
He described the upcoming anniversary as a unique opportunity to celebrate the school’s heritage while investing in its future.
The Bishop also disclosed that the Diocese had concluded plans to provide modern hostel beds worth about ₦20 million to improve student welfare and learning conditions.
Foundation Laid for Long-Term Transformation
The meeting also witnessed the inauguration of several standing committees expected to drive the Association’s strategic programmes and development initiatives.
Stakeholders drawn from various professions, including the judiciary, politics, academia, and business, pledged support for the reform agenda.
Observers described the gathering as a landmark moment that could usher in a new era of transparency, stronger alumni participation, and coordinated efforts to restore James Welch Grammar School as it approaches seven decades of educational service.
