By Efe Onodjae

The Igbobi College Old Boys Association (ICOBA) has disclosed that it has invested intervention funds running into billions of naira in the development of Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, with renewed plans to scale up infrastructure across the historic school.

President of ICOBA, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, who assumed office three months ago, said the alumni body had, over the years, committed resources valued at over N10 billion to the college through the construction of new buildings, equipping of classrooms, teacher training programmes and road rehabilitation within the school environment.

According to him, the association’s immediate focus is on aggressive infrastructural development, noting that substantial support had already been extended to teachers in previous years.

“We have done a lot in terms of supporting teachers. Now, the emphasis is infrastructure, infrastructure and more infrastructure. There is a strategic roadmap, and we have identified the critical needs of the college,” he said, adding that his two-year tenure would prioritise visible and sustainable projects.

Also speaking, First Vice President of ICOBA National, Mr. Femi Soremekun, said the gathering was part of the association’s annual Christmas celebration, tagged “ICOBA on the Runway,” a social event aimed at strengthening alumni bonds and reinforcing commitment to the alma mater.

Soremekun described ICOBA as one of the foremost old boys’ associations in Nigeria, with members across the globe consistently contributing to projects that uplift the school and impact students.

He disclosed that a major project completed in the year was the construction of a block of apartments for teachers, a collaborative effort funded by old boys worldwide and the school management, designed to attract and retain quality teachers.

On the Federal Government’s introduction of computer-based testing (CBT) for WAEC examinations, Soremekun said the association was not threatened by possible misuse of technology, stressing that adequate guidance would be provided for students.

“Our teachers are there to guide them. We are also working towards ensuring that Igbobi College becomes a CBT centre, with support from old boys,” he stated.

He further revealed that the association regularly organises leadership lectures, skill-upgrading and career development programmes for students and alumni, aimed at grooming future leaders and preparing students for life after graduation.
Looking ahead, Soremekun said ICOBA would mark the school’s Founders’ Day on February 2, 2026, commemorating its establishment in 1932, alongside a Merit Awards ceremony to honour distinguished old boys for professional excellence and service to the nation.

Social Secretary of ICOBA International, Mr. Olatunji Akinwumi, said the annual themed Christmas party was designed to foster unity and a sense of belonging among members, while maintaining separate platforms for student-focused engagements.

Highlighting ICOBA’s national impact, Akinwumi noted that prominent alumni of Igbobi College include former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; former Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN); and the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila.
He disclosed that the association recently completed a housing project for teachers and has commenced the rebuilding of Parker House Hostel, expressing confidence that the project would be completed under the current leadership.

“With the level of personal commitment shown by the president, we are confident the hostel project will be delivered,” he said.