By Joseph Abasi-Abasi, Calabàr
The Hope Waddell Old Students Association (HWOSA) Class of 1991 has celebrated its 35th anniversary with a renewed commitment to unity, service and the preservation of the institution’s enduring legacy.
The anniversary celebration, which brought together alumni from across the world, featured speeches from the association’s leadership, a keynote address on unity in diversity and the presentation of awards to distinguished members who have excelled in their various professions.
Delivering the welcome address, Global Coordinator of the Class of ’91, Nkute Hogan, described the reunion as a celebration of resilience, growth and impact since the class first assembled at Hope Waddell in 1991.
He said the class had overcome challenges through collective effort and mutual support, urging members to continue empowering one another and building a stronger association.
According to him, the anniversary should mark the beginning of a new chapter of innovation, growth and service, stressing that members must remain committed to lifting one another and supporting the less privileged.
Quoting Helen Keller, Hogan reminded the alumni that “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” urging members to remain united in pursuit of a brighter future.
Chairman of the 35th Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr. Maurice Olory, described the Class of ’91 as the largest set in the history of Hope Waddell Training Institution, noting that the merger of Streams A and B created a unique bond that has endured for decades.
He praised members for distinguishing themselves as doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, clergy, teachers and professionals in various fields, saying the reunion was an opportunity to reconnect, honour departed classmates and celebrate shared achievements.
The keynote speaker, Samuel Ekanem, delivered a lecture on “Unity in Diversity, Legacy and Impact,” emphasizing that differences in ethnicity, religion, culture and professional background should be harnessed as strengths rather than sources of division.
He maintained that associations thrive when members place shared goals above personal differences, adding that diversity encourages creativity, resilience and better decision-making.
Ekanem urged the alumni to remain connected beyond formal gatherings, advising them to “gather for no reason and bond,” while stressing that enduring legacies are built when diverse people unite around common objectives.
The 35th anniversary celebration also featured the presentation of special recognition awards to distinguished alumni and friends of the Hope Waddell Class of ’91 in acknowledgment of their outstanding contributions to public service, leadership, philanthropy and the advancement of the association.
Chairman of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, Prince Edwin Okon, received the Distinguished Public Service and Partnership Award for his exceptional leadership in transforming the state’s internally generated revenue profile and for serving as an inspiration to the Hope Waddell family through exemplary service.
The Guardian of the Set Award was presented to the Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Chief (Amb.) Hilary Bisong, Ph.D., in recognition of his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare and unity of his classmates, ensuring that no member of the Class of ’91 is left behind.
Commissioner for Forestry, Hon. Oyo Idem (Jara), was honoured with the Steward of Growth and Green Legacy Award for his distinguished public service and his consistent efforts in promoting sustainable development while supporting the growth and progress of members of the association.
The Custodian of Public Trust Award was bestowed on the Accountant-General of Cross River State, Dr. (Mrs.) Glory Tony Effiong, in recognition of her excellence in public financial management and her steadfast support for the Hope Waddell family whenever called upon.
Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Dr. Pius Edet Ankpo, received the Builder of Infrastructure Award for his contributions to road construction and infrastructure development, translating government policies into projects that connect communities and drive economic growth.
Member representing Yakurr I State Constituency, Hon. Cyril Omini, was honoured with the Grassroots Empowerment Award for championing community development initiatives that have positively impacted his constituents and members of the Hope Waddell community.
The National President of HWOSA Worldwide, Arc. Ekpo Akaba, received the Architect of Unity Award in recognition of his leadership in expanding the association through the establishment of new branches and fostering stronger bonds among alumni across the globe.
For his unwavering support and loyalty to the Class of ’91, Ekpenyong Otu (Keppy) was presented with the Brotherhood and Loyalty Award, celebrating his consistent commitment to the unity and progress of the set.
The Golden Supporter Award was conferred on Austin Nkanta for his years of generous support and dedication to the activities and aspirations of the Class of ’91.
Global Coordinator of the Class of ’91, Nkute Hogan, received the Legacy Leadership Award in appreciation of his selfless service, visionary leadership and tireless commitment to advancing the ideals and cohesion of the association.
Also honoured was Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, who received the Voice of the Nation Award for his representation at the national level and for giving the Class of ’91 a voice in the nation’s legislative chambers.
