BY APEX LAW IBITOYE
Community leaders in Ilupeju Ekiti have showered encomiums on Apex Forever Association for its sustained and impactful contributions to educational development, describing the group as a model of purposeful and responsible alumni engagement.
The commendation was given at the 20th anniversary celebration of Apex Forever, held on Saturday, 27th December 2025, in Ilupeju Ekiti, where stakeholders applauded the association’s consistent support for Obalatan Commercial Grammar School and Ilupeju High School.
Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti , His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday David Awe Akingbade, represented by High Chief Amos Ogunbiyi, the Oloja of Odo-Egosi, the Obanla of Ilupeju , represented by , the Elese of Ilupeju, who also serves as Secretary to the Apeju-in-Council; the National President of Ilupeju Development Association (IDA), Elder Banji Ogungbemi; Ekiti RAAMP Coordinator and Patron of Apex Forever, Hon. Sunday Jejelowo Adunmo; Oloye Esan Ogunleye; Rtd. Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sola Ogunmiluyi; and IDA Chairman, Ado-Ekiti, Elder Kayode Ogunyemi and the Ilupeju Youth President, Engr. Femi Fagbemi. They collectively hailed Apex Forever for setting a benchmark worthy of emulation by other old students’ associations.
Students of both schools were advised to shun activities that could hamper them from from attaining greatness in future, adding that they should prioritise their education and emulated the good values of Apex forever.
As part of activities marking the milestone anniversary, Apex Forever donated twelve marker boards and packs of markers to the two alma maters. The association also presented cash prizes to Obalatan Commercial Grammar School, winners of the novelty football match, and Ilupeju High School, in addition to donating two leather footballs to both schools.
Three eminent personalities were also honoured for their outstanding support to the association since its inception. Hon. Sunday Jejelowo Adunmo received the Pillar of Support Award, Chief Mrs. R. O. Daodu was presented with the Meritorious Service Award, while Mrs. Comfort Adunni Alonge was honoured with the Distinguished Support Award.
In his address, the Patron of the Association, Hon. Sunday Jejelowo Adunmo, admonished members to shun jealousy, envy and unhealthy rivalry, stressing that unity, love and mutual support remain the foundation of a strong and progressive alumni body.
“Support one another in good and bad times. Care for every member and never neglect anyone. That is what will take this association to greater heights,” he said.
Similarly, the Patroness, Chief Mrs. R. O. Daodu, represented by her son, urged members to deepen their faith in God, uphold family values and remain bonded in love. She emphasized that deliberate investment in the spiritual, moral, physical and educational upbringing of children is key to a fulfilled and peaceful future.
Earlier, the President of Apex Forever, Engr. Dare Omodudu, reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to educational advancement, economic empowerment of members and the overall development of Ilupeju Ekiti. He noted that the 20th anniversary was not merely a celebration, but a moment of reflection on resilience, growth and shared responsibility.
According to him, the association—despite having just 24 members—has over the years provided financial assistance to brilliant students, equipped school libraries with textbooks and delivered other educational interventions. He assured the community of greater contributions in the years ahead, while appreciating the patron, patroness, advisers and members for their steadfast support and cooperation.
The celebration reached its peak with the cutting of the 20th anniversary cake, as members danced, dined, wined, reconnected and relived old memories—aptly capturing the essence of alumni reunions as platforms for unity, gratitude and collective progress.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiary schools, the Principal of Ilupeju High School, Mr. Albert Ige Osunlade, expressed profound appreciation to Apex Forever for its continuous and impactful support, describing the association as a reliable partner in educational development.
The event once again underscored the enduring relevance of alumni reunions—not merely as social gatherings, but as powerful vehicles for giving back, inspiring younger generations and promoting sustainable community development.