By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe

The people of Obizi Autonomous Community in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area, were thrown into joyful mood on December 27th, following the celebration of the Sixty Years Anniversary of St Augustine's Secondary School, Obizi. The event which drew old students, partners and other participants from different parts of the world, also offered the gathering the opportunity to appreciate the founder, Late Rev A. C. Njoku.

In his reflection during an Inter-Denominational Service marking the Diamond Jubilee Celebration, Ven. Sam Njoku, also an old student of the school, emphasized the need for children of God to be fruitful by bringing to actualization the dreams that God lays in their heart, adding that through such realities, God manifests His good plans for humanity. He extolled the founder, Late Rev Njoku, for bringing light to the area through the school which he disclosed has produced great people in the society. Ven. Njoku, also charged students of school to leverage the opportunity to achieve greatness in their lives.

While an address presented by the School's Board of Directors, comprising of; Mr. Ngozi Njoku, Dr. Ugochukwu Njoku, Mrs. Florence Uloma Ahaiwe, Chief Temple Njoku, Timothy Njoku and Unity Njoku read: "Today, as we gather to honour the past and inspire the future, we are reminded of the incredible journey that St Augustine's Secondary School has undertaken over the decades. From humble beginnings in a rural setting, our institution has flourished, nurturing the minds and spirits of generations of students. This is a great pleasure and immense pride on this momentous occasion of the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of St Augustine's Secondary School.

"Again, for sixty years, this institution has been a beacon of excellence, a crucible of knowledge, and a springboard to success. Throughout its illustrious history, St Secondary School, has consistently raised the bar in academic achievements. Our legacy is one of nurturing brilliant minds, and our track record speaks for itself. We have proudly produced first-class graduates whom we are to honour today. Most of our alumni have become bank managers, industrial merchants, pilots, directors in federal and state establishments and esteemed lecturers.

"Today, as we celebrate sixty years of unparalleled dedication to education and character-building, we reflect not only on our past achievements, but also on the bright future that lies ahead. The strength of our community, the unwavering commitment of our teachers, and the resilience of our students continue to be the cornerstones of our success. As we gather to commemorate this Diamond Jubilee, let us look back with gratitude, look around with pride and look forward with renewed determination," the address stated, while appreciating all who have contributed to the success of the school, as well as soliciting collaboration in moving the school forward.


On his own, Prof. Uche Nwogwugwu of Economics Department, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, while delivering the Diamond Jubilee Lecture, highlighted the importance of education as a powerful tool to change the society positively. According to him, education transcends reading and writing, but empowers learners to reach their full potentials, adding that was what Late Rev Njoku accomplished with the school, emphasizing: "Today, I stand before you to speak about a remarkable individual whose dedication to education has transformed countless lives. 

"This person was not just a philanthropic; he was a visionary leader who believed that education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. In a time when educational disparities were widening, the civil war just ended on 14 January, 1970, parents were impoverished by the war, returnees from the warfront needed to return to schools, but how many were able to pay? But this philanthropist took it upon himself to bridge the gap. He not only donated generously, but also invested his time and energy to ensure that indigent children and adults alike had access to quality education. 

"What sets this philanthropist apart was his hands-on approach. He was often seen interacting with the students, understanding their needs, and inspiring them to aim high. He philosophy is simple, yet profound: 'Educate a child, and you change a community. Educate many, and you can change the world.' Rev A C Njoku's work has not gone unnoticed. Communities have flourished, literacy rates have improved, and more importantly, hope has been restored in places where it was once lost. This philanthropist's legacy is not just in the building he erected or the funds he provided, but in the smiles of children who now dream of a brighter future," he remarked.

The anniversary chaired by Dr. Steve Nwala, also witnessed award presentations. One of the recipients and the pioneer student of the school,  Mr. Cornelius Okoro, recounted the early days of the school and how the founder motivated him to succeed. He expressed gratitude to God for making him to witness the anniversary, while urging young people to always demonstrate determination to succeed in life endeavours. Another awardee; Chief Dr. Marcelinus Azubuike, also emerged as the Interim National President of Old Students Association of the school.

The highpoints of the event were sixty gunshots symbolizing the Diamond Jubilee  of the school and traditional dances. Other personalities that took part at the event included: HRH, Eze (Barr.) Stephen Azubuine; Justice Ogadimma Agada; Labour Party Chairman, Ezinihitte LGA, Pastor Richards Madukwe; Inspector Ezeugo Emmanuel and Chief Barthy Kalakiya who was the Chairman of the Planning Committee. Meanwhile, the school's Principal, Mr Njoku Bright Mezie, used the occasion to emphasize the needs of the school, including renovation works and provisions of computer and science laboratories.