The Class of 2005 of Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, marked their reunion with a heartfelt celebration in honour of the men and women who helped shape their lives.
The event took place on Sunday, coinciding with Nigeria’s commemoration of World Teachers’ Day, and was held alongside the school’s Award and Thanksgiving Day. The occasion was filled with emotion, gratitude, and reflection.
Twenty years after graduating, members of the 2005 set reunited to celebrate their former teachers, give back to their alma mater, and thank God for His faithfulness over the past two decades.
As part of their contribution, the alumni donated a standard table tennis court, new sporting equipment, and gym apparatus to support the physical development of current students.
They also presented cash awards to several of their former teachers,a gesture that drew loud applause from students, staff, and parents in attendance.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Chinonso Ofozoba, a member of the 2005 class and a senior academic at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, described World Teachers’ Day as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact educators have on society.
“We are where we are today because of the foundation laid by our teachers.“Among us are academics, entrepreneurs, public servants, and industry leaders—all fruits of the dedication CKC instilled in us.”he said.
The coordinator of the alumni association, Mr. Chukwuemeka Abaikwam, spoke with deep nostalgia as he presented the cash gifts, recalling how a line from the school anthem, “May the fame of our college last forever,” had guided them throughout their lives.
“Standing here today brings back memories,” “It’s a joy to return—not just to give back—but to celebrate our teachers, the true heroes of our success.”he said.
Abaikwam also commended Sir Fidelis Ikeji, the convener of the alumni group, for his leadership in reuniting members since 2019. He highlighted the group’s ongoing initiatives, including the ‘One Year, One Millionaire’ project, through which members raise one million naira annually to empower a fellow alumnus.
“So far, four beneficiaries have become self-sufficient and now contribute to helping others,” he noted.
He further shared that the group undertakes annual humanitarian visits to orphanages, hospitals, and elderly homes—acts inspired by the lessons of compassion and service they learned from their teachers.
Receiving the donations, the Principal of CKC Onitsha, Rev. Fr. Dr. Arinze Celestine Okafor, lauded the alumni for choosing to honour Teachers’ Day in such a meaningful and impactful way.
“This gesture honours the teaching profession and shows our students that gratitude is the highest form of learning.Your teachers will always be proud of you,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the honorees, Mrs. Ngozi Osefo—now Principal of Awa Secondary School in Orumba South Local Government Area,expressed profound appreciation.
“A teacher’s greatest reward is seeing their students excel. “Your visit today, on World Teachers’ Day, fills our hearts with pride and reminds us why we chose this noble calling.”she said.
Chief Chijioke Ogbete, IT consultant and coordinator of the 20th Anniversary Committee, described the event as a fitting celebration of divine guidance, lasting mentorship, and the indelible influence of teachers.
The event ended in a festive atmosphere, marked by music, laughter, and heartfelt tributes—a memorable celebration of World Teachers’ Day at one of Nigeria’s most prestigious schools.
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