Kobi Primary Old Boys mark 113th anniversary, honour late Tafawa Balewa, others

By Hassan Ibrahim

In a colourful celebration marking its 113th anniversary, Kobi Primary School Old Pupils Association (KPSOPA) has honoured some of its distinguished old boys who have excelled in their respective careers and contributed to national development.

The deserving members honored includes the late Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, immediate past Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Emir of Bauchi Dr. Rilwan Sulaiman Adamu and former Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, retired Colonel Hameed Ibrahim Ali.

Others are Senator representing Bauchi South Shehu Buba Umar, Dr Bala Wunti, Ambassador Aishatu Laraba Abdullahi, and the Chairman of Bauchi Local Government Area, Hon Mahmoud Babamaji Abubakar.

Although not a pupil of the school, the association honored the State Governor Bala Mohammed for his development stride in the school and education across the state.

Speaking at the event held at the school premises Sunday in Bauchi, the Chairman of the occasion, retired Colonel Hameed Ibrahim Ali, said the significance of the celebration was to bring old boys together to collectively contribute to the growth and development of the school, with a view to addressing its pressing challenges.

Ali, an old boy of the school, urged members of the old pupils to work closely with the Bauchi State Government to support the development of the institution.

Ali also advocated the creation of an alumni fund, adding that collective support would not only enhance individual wellbeing but also strengthen the capacity of the association to give back meaningfully to its alma mater.

In his remarks, the Interim Chairman of the Old Boys Association, Alhaji Muhammad Dauda, described the reunion as more than a commemorative gathering, saying it provided an opportunity to reconnect, renew shared purpose, and reinforce collective commitment to improving the school.

In her keynote address, the guest speaker at the event, Hajiya Aisha Laraba, commended members of the association for their consistent involvement in the school’s development, citing the construction of classrooms and donation of ICT equipment as evidence of their commitment.

She emphasized the importance of unity and active participation in the national alumni body of the school to achieve the desired objectives.

She, however, lamented the inadequate security within the school premises and appealed for greater involvement of parents, particularly in the areas of discipline, dressing, punctuality, and protection of school property against hoodlums and theft.

Highlights of the occasion included the launching of an appeal fund, presentation of awards to deserving members, inspection of classrooms and the school environment, as well as group photographs.