Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State was honored with a distinguished leadership award by the Old Students Association of Marafa Primary School in Minna, the state capital.Â
The ceremony took place on Saturday at the Banquet Hall of Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna, and was themed “Reunion Luncheon and Awards of Marafa Primary School Set of 1985.”
The event brought together friends, relatives of the Old Students Association, and well-wishers, providing an opportunity for the Class of ’85 and pupils from diverse backgrounds to reunite after more than 38 years since their graduation.
The primary goal was to revive and enhance the Baptist Missionary school’s former glory in terms of both infrastructure and human capital development.
Marafa Primary School holds historical significance, located within Minna metropolitan areas and in close proximity to the Emir’s Palace.
The alumni association decided to convene after nearly four decades to honor Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, a former classmate, along with four others, including a female associate professor at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai, who have achieved excellence in their respective fields.
Addressing the gathering, Alhaji Umar Musa Zago, the Chairman of the Marafa Primary School Minna Old Students Association, Class of ’85, expressed gratitude to the head teacher and teachers of the school for shaping their lives.
Zago highlighted the endearing relationship with teachers, emphasizing that they were regarded as their own children, fostering a conducive learning environment irrespective of diverse backgrounds.
Zago further emphasized the lasting impact of the discipline instilled during their school years, attributing their success across private and public sectors to those formative experiences.
He expressed pride in having Governor Umar Bago as part of the Marafa ’85 set, describing it as a historic moment after over 38 years.
The Chairman conveyed the association’s pleasure in conferring the spectacular award on Governor Umar Bago, recognizing his significant contributions to public life as a politician and commending his role in making the reunion a reality.
He assured the governor of unwavering support and prayers as he leads the state towards achieving the New Niger agenda.
Apart from Governor Bago, other recipients of awards of excellence included Architect Aliyu Yerima, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Architects, Engr. Gimba Yisa, Abdul Wasiu Amusa, and Hajiya Fatima Kolo, a former head girl of the school.
Pastor Samuel Audu, the clergy of the Old Students Association, concluded the ceremony with a prayer for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s good health and successful tenure, reflecting on their shared history at the renowned school in Minna.
