A new book chronicling the grass-to-grace stories of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Shell Nigeria Plc’s first gas reservoir engineer, Afolabi Adeniyi; and other notable alumni of Ijebu-Ife Community Grammar School, Ogun State, will be unveiled on Saturday as part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebration.
The book, titled “From Ijebu-Ife to the World: Enduring Legacy of IICGS @ 50,” was authored by the publisher of Church Times Nigeria, Gbenga Osinaike.
Spanning 24 chapters, the publication captures the success stories of distinguished alumni, former staff, and founding fathers of IICGS.
Ijebu-Ife Community Grammar School, Ogun State, was officially opened to students on September 5, 1975, with Sanwo-Olu among the second set of students.
According to Osinaike, the book is designed to inspire readers with the message that one’s background does not determine future success.
He said, “In about 24 chapters, Osinaike tells the grass-to-grace stories of the alumni of the school, making it clear that one’s background is largely inconsequential in the journey of success.
“As the stories in this book show, rural environments, lack of amenities, or modest beginnings do not hinder eventual success. What matters is hard work and faith in God, who propels the diligent to greater heights.”
The compendium also highlights the achievements of other alumni, including US-based award-winning surgeon, Prof. Adejinle Babalola, and celebrated photographer, Mr Dayo Adedayo, who has promoted Nigeria’s image through his craft.
The Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Wale Adedayo, who wrote the foreword to the book, urged present-day students to draw inspiration from the achievements of the old students, stressing that location or background should not limit their aspirations.
Adedayo wrote, “Osinaike shows in this work that no matter how low your starting point in life is, you can reach the highest heights if you diligently apply yourself. You don’t have to resign to fate or give up.
“Being from a poor background or lacking influential connections should not make anyone feel they cannot achieve greatness. This book provides several proofs of that, which I strongly recommend not only to current students of Ijebu-Ife Community Grammar School but also to students in rural communities everywhere
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