By Muhammed Danjuma Ogwu, Lafia
Government College Keffi, Nasarawa State’s premier institution of learning, has marked its 76th anniversary with a resounding call to restore the vision of one of its most illustrious alumni—late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua—by completing the long-abandoned E-library project he championed over a decade ago.
The milestone celebration, held during the 2025 Annual General Meeting and Awards Night of the Keffi Old Boys Association (KOBA), was not only a reunion of minds and memories but a heartfelt appeal to reignite the flame of excellence that the school has long been known for.
Addressing dignitaries and alumni from across Nigeria, newly elected KOBA President Mohamed Lawan described the anniversary as a reminder of both the institution’s proud heritage and the urgent need for intervention. “This school produced giants, including our dear late President Yar’Adua. But today, the E-library he initiated lies in ruins. We owe it to his legacy and to the future of education in Nigeria to revive it,” Lawan said.
The institution, founded in 1949, has played a central role in shaping Nigerian leadership across generations. Yet, while the school’s legacy stands tall, its infrastructure—particularly the landmark E-library intended to drive digital literacy—remains stuck in the past.
Despite the odds, KOBA members have led impactful interventions. Renovated classrooms, new hostels, a multipurpose hall, clinic upgrades, and solar lighting—some supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria—have all been achieved through Old Boys’ commitment. Still, Lawan insists the efforts need strong federal and state backing. “We’ve done our part. But to move forward, we need real partnership,” he emphasized.
Representing Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Dr. John Mamman, commended KOBA’s efforts and assured that the state would investigate and address the issues surrounding the E-library. “Governor Sule is a man of vision, especially when it comes to education. He will look into it,” Mamman stated.
Ambassador Umaru Sulaiman, chairman of the occasion, added his voice to the call for federal action. “If completed, that E-library will reposition this school for 21st-century learning and research. Our students must be able to compete across Nigeria and beyond.”
The Emir of Keffi and Grand Patron of KOBA, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, also reaffirmed his support for the institution, praising the resilience of the alumni and staff. “Government College Keffi remains a nucleus of knowledge. It’s time to take it even higher,” he said, encouraging the newly elected KOBA officials to emulate the vision and leadership qualities of Yar’Adua.
Principal Baba Saidu detailed ongoing needs, including bunks, updated lab and office equipment, and enhanced food supply for students. He thanked KOBA for recent support, including roofing damaged buildings, donations of textbooks, solar lights, and more.
Outgoing KOBA President, Chief Engr. Edward Udege, acknowledged the Emir’s fatherly support and the unity among alumni. “This is a community that believes in giving back,” he said.
The newly elected KOBA team, led by Mohamed Lawan, Dr. Mathew Ashikeni (1st VP), Barr. David Nanyak (2nd VP), and Architect Umar Shittu (Secretary-General), now bears the torch for the next chapter.
As Government College Keffi steps into its 77th year, the message is clear: the foundation is solid, the legacy is alive, and the dream of digital transformation through the Yar’Adua E-library project is still within reach—if leaders act now.