Up Anthonians: Arise and Build

A Reunion to Remember: The 1992/1993 Alumni of St. Anthony's College

On the 9th of April, 2022, the 1992/1993 alumni of St. Anthony's College came together for an impromptu reunion that turned out to be a heartwarming and unforgettable event. The idea for this gathering had been brewing in the mind of one particular alumnus, who, knowing he would be in town, wanted to see if he could bring his old friends together, especially those living in Lagos and the surrounding areas. The prospect of reconnecting after so many years was exciting, and he set out to make it happen.

It all started with a simple idea: a desire to reconnect with old friends, to reminisce about the past, and to create new memories. He reached out to his classmates through various means – phone calls, social media, and even personal visits – to gauge their interest and availability. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Many of his classmates were enthusiastic about the idea and eagerly agreed to attend.

One of the highlights of the event was the presence of their very own Nollywood star (aka Abotoi), who had managed to carve out a successful career in the film industry. His attendance added a touch of glamour to the reunion and was a testament to the diverse paths their lives had taken since their days at St. Anthony's College. Alongside him was Kingsley Okonji, another well-known name among the alumni, whose presence further underscored the significance of the occasion.

As the day of the reunion approached, there was a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among the alumni. The chosen venue was a cozy and elegant space that perfectly suited the intimate nature of their gathering. It was a place where old friends could come together, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, to celebrate their shared history and the bonds they had formed all those years ago.

The reunion began in the early afternoon, as alumni started to trickle in, each greeted with warm hugs and hearty handshakes. The room quickly filled with the sounds of laughter and animated conversation, as people reconnected and caught up on each other's lives. There were moments of joyous recognition as old friends reunited, their faces lighting up with smiles and expressions of surprise.

One of the most touching aspects of the reunion was the way it brought back memories of their school days. As they mingled and shared stories, it was clear that the bonds formed during their time at St. Anthony's College had endured despite the passage of time. They reminisced about their favorite teachers, the pranks they played, the friendships they formed, and the life lessons they learned. It was a trip down memory lane that evoked a deep sense of nostalgia and camaraderie.

The Nollywood star, who had once been just another student among them, was now a figure of admiration and pride. He shared stories of his journey in the film industry, the challenges he faced, and the successes he achieved. His presence was a reminder of how far they had all come since their days at St. Anthony's College, and his humility and warmth endeared him even more to his old friends.

Kingsley Okonji, with his charismatic personality, was another focal point of the reunion. Known for his achievements in business and his active involvement in community service, Kingsley had become a respected figure. He spoke passionately about the importance of giving back and staying connected with one's roots. His words resonated deeply with the alumni, inspiring them to consider ways they could contribute to their alma mater and their communities.

The reunion was not just about reminiscing; it was also about celebrating their individual and collective achievements. Many alumni took the opportunity to share updates on their lives – their careers, families, and personal milestones. It was a time of mutual admiration and respect, as they celebrated each other's successes and offered support and encouragement for the future.

As the afternoon turned into evening, the atmosphere became even more festive. A sumptuous dinner was served, featuring a delightful array of dishes that catered to everyone's tastes. The meal was accompanied by lively conversations and toasts, as the alumni raised their glasses to friendship, memories, and the future. The room was filled with a sense of joy and contentment, as they savored the moment and the company of old friends.

After dinner, the reunion took on a more relaxed and informal tone. Some alumni gathered in small groups to continue their conversations, while others took to the dance floor, moving to the rhythm of music that brought back memories of their youth. There were moments of spontaneous singing and dancing, as the alumni let loose and enjoyed themselves, free from the constraints of daily life.

Throughout the evening, there were several heartfelt speeches and toasts. Alumni shared their gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect and expressed their hope that this reunion would be the first of many. They spoke of the importance of staying in touch and supporting one another, emphasizing the unique bond they shared as members of the 1993 class of St. Anthony's College.

The presence of the Nollywood star and Kingsley Okonji added an extra layer of significance to the event. Their success stories were a source of inspiration for everyone, and their willingness to participate in the reunion was a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty. Their contributions to the evening – through their stories, their warmth, and their presence – made the reunion even more special.

As the evening drew to a close, there was a sense of fulfillment and gratitude among the alumni. They had come together to celebrate their shared past, and in doing so, they had strengthened the bonds that would carry them into the future. The reunion had been a resounding success, not just because of the number of attendees or the glamour of the event, but because of the genuine connections that were rekindled and the memories that were created.

The 1993 alumni of St. Anthony's College left the reunion with a renewed sense of camaraderie and a commitment to staying connected. They promised to keep in touch, to support one another, and to make the reunion an annual event. As they said their goodbyes and made their way home, they carried with them the warmth of the evening and the knowledge that, no matter where life took them, they would always have the bonds of their school days to anchor them.

In the end, the impromptu reunion had achieved something truly special. It had brought together a group of individuals who had once shared a classroom and a playground, and it had reminded them of the enduring power of friendship and community. It was a celebration of the past, a reflection on the present, and a hopeful look towards the future – a reunion that would be remembered and cherished for years to come.