1984 SET OF GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL, BIU ORGANIZES 40TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION

“THIS REUNION IS NOT MERELY A GATHERING; IT IS A CELEBRATION OF SHARED HISTORY” – GEN. BURATAI

“YOUR ACTIONS TODAY WILL INSPIRE OTHERS TO CONTRIBUTE MEANINGFULLY TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR COMMUNITIES” – DEPUTY GOVERNOR KADAFUR

On December 30, 2024, the 1984 Set of Government Secondary School (GSS) Biu gathered for a momentous 40th Anniversary Reunion at the School Hall, under the theme: “Role of Alumni in Societal Development and Unity.” The event was a significant celebration of the alumni’s shared history and their ongoing commitment to the advancement of education and community development.

The reunion was graced by distinguished guests, including His Excellency Amb Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR, former Chief of Army Staff, represented by Brig Gen Abdullahi Dadan-Garba Rtd, Director General of the Tukur Buratai Institute for War and Peace. His Excellency Hon Usman Umar Kadafur, Deputy Governor of Borno State, served as the Special Guest of Honour, while Hon. Prof. Haruna Yerima from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria was the Guest Speaker.

In his heartfelt welcome address, the Acting President of the 1984 Set Alumni, Maj Gen Abdulmalik Bulama Biu (Rtd), expressed profound gratitude to attendees for their presence, emphasizing the significance of the reunion as a platform to reconnect and reflect on the shared journey of the alumni. He reminisced about the formative years spent at GSS Biu, highlighting the invaluable support from teachers and staff that shaped their educational experiences.

Maj Gen Biu’s poignant remarks underscored the importance of alumni contributions to the school’s development. He announced the alumni’s commitment to building six latrines with comprehensive water reticulation as an initial project to support their alma mater, emphasizing that this reunion marks the beginning of more impactful initiatives.

The Chairman of the Occasion, His Excellency Amb Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), through Brig Gen Dadan-Garba, commended the 1984 Set Alumni for their initiative. He remarked, “This reunion is not merely a gathering; it is a celebration of our shared history and a powerful reminder of the bonds that unite us. It is an opportunity to rekindle friendships and reflect on our collective journey. Your commitment to giving back to GSS Biu through the projects executed is commendable and sets a precedent for future alumni. I urge you to continue this noble endeavor and inspire others to follow suit.”

The Guest Speaker, Hon. Prof. Haruna Yerima, emphasized the indispensable role of alumni in enhancing the quality and accessibility of education in Nigeria. He articulated that alumni contributions—whether financial, mentorship, or community engagement—are pivotal in shaping a brighter future for the next generation. He stated, “Engaging alumni in educational development is not just an act of giving back; it is a strategic investment in the nation’s growth and prosperity.”

In his remarks, Deputy Governor Hon Usman Umar Kadafur echoed the sentiment that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of educational development. He called on individuals and organizations to emulate the exemplary efforts of the 1984 Set Alumni, stating, “The commitment shown by the alumni of GSS Biu is a shining example of community spirit and responsibility. We must all come together to support our educational institutions, as they are the bedrock of our society’s future. Your actions today will inspire others to contribute meaningfully to the development of our communities.”

As the reunion concluded, attendees were reminded to honor the memory of those who have passed, acknowledging their contributions to the institution and the lives of their peers. The event not only celebrated the achievements of the alumni but also reinforced the collective commitment to fostering unity and development within society.

The 40th Anniversary Reunion of the 1984 Set of GSS Biu stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of camaraderie and the vital role that alumni play in shaping the future of education and societal development in Nigeria. Gen Buratai was honored with an Award of Commitment to Excellence for his unwavering commitment towards making life better for humanity globally, nationally, and locally, while His Excellency Hon Usman Kadafur received an Award of Excellence for his contributions to the community, others include Hon Mukhtar Berata Member House Representative representing the good people Biu, Bayo, Shani and Kwaya Kusar, Mohammed Goni Alkali MD CEO Northeast Development Commission, Late Malam Garba Chief Cook GSS Biu, Late Hajiya Zara Kida Chief Metron GSS Biu, Late Malam Bukar Wakshama Chief Messenger, also Alumnus Appreciation Award was presented to Emir Biu and Shani.

‘Together We Can Overcome’: Ambassador Ajadi’s Vision for Nigeria in 2025

The Southwest Chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended heartfelt New Year wishes to Nigerians, urging a renewed sense of patriotism and dedication to national progress. In his New Year message, Ajadi called on citizens to remain hopeful about the prospects of 2025, emphasizing that unity and collective effort are crucial for driving the nation forward.

Speaking during the 2024/2025 crossover service at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pinnacle of Glory Parish, Ibafo, Ogun State, Ambassador Ajadi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the New Year. He described the moment as a testament to divine grace, underscoring the importance of health and peace.

“By the grace of God, we are alive and healthy to see this New Year. It is a privilege we must not take for granted. Only the living can offer praise to the Almighty, and for that, we must remain grateful,” he said.

Ajadi, a prominent philanthropist and advocate for good governance, reminded Nigerians to appreciate life and sound health, even amidst economic challenges. “While financial resources may not be as abundant as they should be in a well-structured nation, the gift of health and peace is invaluable. These are blessings worth celebrating,” he remarked.

The NNPP leader urged Nigerians to prioritize patriotism and national dedication in their everyday lives. He noted that these values are fundamental to building a united and prosperous country.

“In this New Year, let us renew our commitment to our nation. Patriotism and dedication are the foundation of progress. With a shared vision and collective effort, no obstacle can hinder our success,” Ajadi stated.

While acknowledging the economic and social challenges facing Nigeria, he encouraged citizens to remain hopeful and optimistic. Ajadi expressed confidence that 2025 could be a transformative year if leaders and citizens alike upheld the principles of fairness, justice, and development.

The crossover service, attended by community leaders and notable figures, included prayers for the nation’s progress and the well-being of its people. Ajadi joined other worshippers in praising God and praying for a brighter future for Nigeria.

As a key political figure in the Southwest, Ambassador Ajadi has consistently championed policies that prioritize the welfare of Nigerians. His philanthropic initiatives and advocacy for good governance have left a lasting impact across the country. His New Year message serves as a rallying cry for all Nigerians to unite in pursuit of a better nation.

“The journey to greatness comes with challenges, but with faith, determination, and collective effort, we can overcome any hurdle. Let 2025 be a year of renewed hope and commitment to achieving the Nigerian dream,” he concluded.

Ambassador Ajadi’s message of hope and unity once again underscores his dedication to the Nigerian people and his vision for a prosperous, inclusive nation.

Kindness Defeats Witchcraft:
Apostle Suleman’s Cross-Over Lecture at ‘Mercy Night’

Evil is very much alive and well in this world. We are reminded of this fact as we see it play out almost often. Although evil occurs and serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty that exists within humankind, showing kindness can easily defeat evil acts, which is witchcraft, lectures popular servant of God and General Overseer of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman.

At the ministry’s Cross-Over service on Tuesday 31st of December, 2024 tagged ‘Mercy Night’, the Restoration Apostle, ably present with his wife, Reverend Lizzy Suleman, warned us to “never avenge ourselves”. To the contrary, Apostle Suleman cautions; “do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good”.

Usually, the natural response of man when he is hurt is to hurt back. But, Suleman says “God tells us something different”, quoting Romans 12:19–21: “Vengeance is mine, I will repay. If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

According to the servant of God, not only should you refuse to take revenge, but you should intentionally do good to those who you would consider your enemies. Showing them love and kindness would so confuse and frustrate your enemy that the result would be them turning to God.

“If you want to see witchcraft being rubbished in your life, engage In kindness. To recover means to regaining possession. To recover means a comeback, the return of control. To recover means to improve and to become better. To recover is renewal,” Suleman teaches, suggesting that hate must not define us.