By Johnson Adebowale
A powerful testament to the enduring bonds of community and the transformative power of education unfolded at Zixton Secondary School last week, as the Zixton Old Students’ Association (ZOSA) launched a suite of vital projects valued at over N40 million. The heartwarming gesture, spearheaded by the outgoing executive council (2019-2025), marks a significant investment in the school’s infrastructure and a beacon of hope for its current and future students.
The inauguration, a highlight of ZOSA’s third Biennial Convention held from April 24 to 26, 2025, was graced by Hon. Peter Uzokwu, a Member of the Federal House of Representatives, himself a proud alumnus of the institution. The array of newly completed projects included a robust perimeter fence ensuring the safety and security of the school premises, a modern security post manned by dedicated personnel, much-needed new toilet facilities replacing dilapidated structures, and a dignified cenotaph erected in honour of the school’s revered co-founder/proprietor, Hon V.C. Ikeotuonye.
Speaking passionately at the event, the outgoing secretary-general of ZOSA and a member of the school’s board of trustees, Lady Christy Ray Okoye, underscored the profound impact of the alumni’s collective contribution. Estimating the total value of the projects at approximately N40 million, she revealed that the funds were a direct result of the unwavering generosity and voluntary donations of ZOSA members.
Lady Okoye passionately called upon the wider public to embrace a similar spirit of giving back to the institutions that shaped them.
“We have a responsibility to nurture the society that has nurtured us,” she asserted, emphasizing the need to move beyond solely relying on government funding for the upkeep of educational institutions.
She painted a vivid picture of the challenges the school previously faced: “Before now, the absence of a perimeter fence left the school vulnerable. Students could leave the premises unchecked and, regrettably, thieves often targeted classrooms and laboratories.
“Furthermore, the existing toilet facilities were relics of the pre-war era, falling into severe disrepair.”
Driven by a commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment and instilling discipline, ZOSA prioritized the construction of a sturdy perimeter fence, a project that consumed over N20 million. This was followed by the complete rebuilding of the toilet facilities and the construction of an imposing main gate, complete with a dedicated security post equipped with its own modern conveniences.
The convention commenced with a poignant courtesy visit to the ancestral home of the school’s founders, followed by heartfelt prayers at the gravesides of Hon V.C. Ikeotuonye and his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Christy Ikeotuonye. Chairman of the convention, Mr. Charles Obiatuegwu, led the solemn occasion, with members of ZOSA, under the leadership of their outgoing president, Hon. Afam Obi, warmly received by Mr. V.C. Ikeotuonye Jr., the grandson and head of the esteemed Ikeotuonye family.
The spirit of celebration and recognition permeated the convention as several distinguished members of ZOSA were bestowed with Awards of Excellence. Among the honorees were Amb. Iyom Christy Ray Okoye, the third child of the proprietor; Dr. Collins Mbanugo, a distinguished US-based surgeon; the late Vincent Ikeotuonye, the first son of the proprietor (posthumously); Mr. Ato Arinze; and Engr. Willie Igwe.
The event also drew the presence of prominent figures within the ZOSA community, including the president emeritus, Engr. Eric Igwe; the incoming president, Prof. Sabe Nwosu; and Mr. Ken Echekwube, alongside a host of other dedicated alumni.
Founded in 1957 by the visionary duo of Hon V.C. Ikeotuonye and his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Christy Ikeotuonye, Zixton Secondary School carved a remarkable niche for itself in the 1960s, renowned for its outstanding achievements in the realm of sports. This latest act of generosity by its old students underscores the enduring legacy of the founders and the unwavering commitment of its alumni to ensuring that Zixton continues to shine as a beacon of learning for generations to come. The projects stand not just as concrete structures, but as powerful symbols of what can be achieved when a community unites to invest in its future.