By Jimmy Fatunbi
University of Lagos Professor and former Commissioner for Higher Education in Delta State, Hope Oghenerukevbe Eghagha, has been elected as the first National President of Ziks Old Students’ Association (ZOKA), Ziks Secondary School, Sapele.
Eghagha, a renowned poet and lecturer at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), was elected along other national officers to run the activities of the alumni association for the next three years.
Ziks Secondary School, Sapele, Delta State, was founded in 1943 by late Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh as Ziks College of Commerce. It was later renamed Ziks Academy and Zik Grammar School.
A statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the association, Mr. Paul Ogagarue, said Prof Eghagha becomes the first national President of the Ziks Old Students Association (ZOSA).
Other national officers elected are Capt (Dr.) Tony Onoharigho, (Vice-President); Cdr Austin Ekele, Secretary; Mrs Julie Omayone, Assistant Secretary; Mr.Paul Ogagarue, PRO; Dr. (Mrs) Patience Turtoe-Saunders, Director of Mobilisation; Pst. Augustine Okoro, Financial Secretary and Mrs. Esther Ararhire, Treasurer.
Mrs Marian Igogori, Welfare Office and Rtn. Victor Okotie, Internal Auditor also made the list.
In his acceptance speech, Prof Eghagha thanked members for the honour of serving as the Association’s first national president.
He called on all old students to join hands to ensure that they gave back to the institution, which gave them a springboard in life.
ZOSA National President promised that the EXCO will soon present a line-up of activities to herald the formation of the association.
The statement further disclosed that a seven-man board of trustees was appointed for the alumni association.
Those appointed as trustees are Chief Robert Onome (Chairman) and Barr. Andrew Ubido- (Secretary). Members include Mr. Jonathan Ebiyomare, Ms. Tsola Esanjumi, Mr. Ademola Renwick, Mrs Vero Ewarekukor and Mr. Anthony Owheri.
