Former Permanent Secretary in the Delta State Ministry of Works, Fred Edafioghor, has been elected the national president of the James Welch Grammar School, Emevor Old Boys Association (JWGS OBA).
Edafioghor emerged during the national delegates conference of the association held at the premises of the school in Emevor, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday.
Other members of the newly elected national executive council include Chief Jerome Omoroh as vice president I; Olorogun Clem Efeveware-Onowotu (UK) as vice president II; Keme Maika (Warri) as secretary general; and Owisi Owareobor (Abuja) as assistant secretary general.
Also elected were Gideon Jarikre (Lagos) as treasurer; Francis Egene (Warri) as financial secretary; Harry Idoro (Home Branch) as public relations officer; Oghenero Uyeri (Home Branch) as social secretary; Samuel Okpako (Home Branch) as auditor; and Dr. Jenigho Philip Esavwede (Ughelli) as ex-officio member.
Speaking shortly after his election, Edafioghor expressed gratitude to members of the association for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work with the new executive to strengthen unity and reposition the association.
He commended the immediate past president for steering the association through challenging times and ensuring a successful transition of leadership.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who made this day possible. Your presence here today is a clear demonstration of your commitment to the progress and unity of the James Welch Grammar School Old Boys Association,” he said.
Edafioghor also appreciated elders of the association for their steadfast support and behind-the-scenes efforts in ensuring the survival of the association despite past turbulence.
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He acknowledged the role of younger members of the association, describing them as the future of the organisation and expressing hope that they would assume leadership roles in the years ahead.
The new president further thanked members who supported his emergence and specifically appreciated Senior Sam Igharoro and Gospel Uruko for stepping down from the race after he signaled his intention to contest the position.
Outlining his vision for the association, Edafioghor said the new executive would focus on expanding the participation of old boys in the activities of the association through unity, reconciliation, inclusiveness and transparent leadership.
According to him, the association would also collaborate with the diocese and other stakeholders to promote the development and expansion of the school as a strong single-sex institution.
He emphasized that the association would not advocate the return of the school to government ownership.
Edafioghor also announced plans to organise a grand celebration to mark the 70th anniversary of James Welch Grammar School in 2027, noting that the event would include the comprehensive rehabilitation of the school.
He disclosed that the new executive would develop and publish a detailed strategic plan within ten days after consultations with the school and other stakeholders.
“Our vision is simple: the old boys association is our commonwealth. It belongs to all of us and today it needs unity and resuscitation more than ever before,” he stated.
He urged members of the association to work together to rebuild trust, restore unity and reposition the association to effectively support the development of their alma mater.
The new president also reminded members of the founding objectives of the association, which include promoting good relationships among old boys, liaising with the school and relevant authorities on matters affecting the school, assisting in the development of the institution, and coordinating the activities of branches of the association.
He called on all old boys to support the new executive in its efforts to strengthen the association and contribute meaningfully to the continued growth of James Welch Grammar School, Emevor.
