Members of the Hope Waddell Training Institution, Class of 1991 during the 35th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
Members of the Hope Waddell Training Institution Class of 1991 have celebrated their 35th anniversary with a call for greater unity, sustained service and stronger commitment to the development of their alma mater and society.
The event held on Saturday at the Belaaj Event Centre, Calabar, brought together alumni from different professional backgrounds, including public office holders, business leaders, technocrats and community development advocates.
The anniversary was themed, “Unity in Diversity, Legacy and Impact: The 35-Year Journey,” reflecting on the class’ achievements since leaving the institution in 1991.
Delivering his welcome address, the Global Coordinator of the Class of ’91, Mr. Nkute Hogan, described the anniversary as a celebration of resilience, growth and collective accomplishments.
According to Hogan, the journey of the class over the last three and a half decades has been defined by perseverance, collaboration and a shared vision for progress.
“Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone, 35 years of resilience, growth and impact. Thirty-five years since we first met in Hope Waddell in 1991,” Hogan said.
He noted that members had overcome numerous challenges through unity and mutual support while remaining committed to excellence.
“Our story is one of overcoming challenges, pushing boundaries and achieving greatness. We have worked together, supported one another and lifted each other up,” he stated.
Hogan commended members, partners and leaders whose sacrifices helped shape the association into one of the most vibrant alumni groups in the institution’s history.
“As we honour those who have made significant contributions, we acknowledge the tireless efforts of our members, partners and leaders. Your dedication has shaped our community and inspired others,” he added.
The coordinator urged members to see the anniversary as the beginning of another phase of growth and innovation.
“Let this anniversary mark a new chapter of continued growth, innovation and service. Let us keep pushing the frontiers of what is possible,” he said.
Congratulating award recipients, Hogan described their achievements as evidence of commitment, passion and purposeful leadership.
“To our awardees, congratulations. Your work is a testament to the power of passion and purpose,” he said.
He further charged members of the class to continue promoting hope, unity and community service while strengthening support systems for one another.
Quoting American author Helen Keller, Hogan urged members to embrace collective action and solidarity.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. It is time to arise and do so much,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of the 35th Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr Maurice Olory, described the Class of ’91 as one of the most unique sets produced by Hope Waddell Training Institution.
Olory recalled that the class emerged from the merger of Streams A and B, creating what he described as the largest graduating set in the institution’s history.
“Class of ’91 remains the biggest set in Hope Waddell’s history because destiny merged Streams A and B. We did not just share classrooms; we joined destinies,” he said.
He noted that members had distinguished themselves in different professions, including medicine, law, business, education and ministry.
“Some built companies, some built homes, but all built lives while living the Hope Waddell spirit. ‘Dare to be Different’ became ‘Dare to Succeed,’” Olory stated.
The chairman said the gathering was also an opportunity to reconnect, celebrate shared memories and honour departed classmates.
“We are here to reconnect bonds time could not break, honour those gone ahead and live by our oath: ‘Once a Howadian, always a Howadian. Howad will never fail,’” he said.
In the keynote presentation, Dr Samuel Ekanem spoke on the theme of the anniversary, stressing that unity in diversity remains essential for the survival and growth of any organisation.
Ekanem explained that unity does not require uniformity but rather a common commitment to purpose despite differences in culture, religion, language, opinion and background.
According to Ekanem, associations thrive when they transform diversity into strength, allowing every member to contribute unique talents toward a shared vision.
He maintained that adherence to established rules, respect for one another and commitment to collective goals would ensure the sustainability of the association for generations to come.
Major highlights of the celebration was cutting of the anniversary cake and presentation of awards to distinguished alumni and public servants whose contributions have impacted society, the association and their alma mater.
Among the recipients was the Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Dr Pius Edet Ankpo, who received the Builder of Infrastructure Award for spearheading road construction projects and transforming development plans into visible infrastructure.
Responding, Ankpo shortly after the event expressed gratitude to the organisers, saying the honour reflected divine favour and recognition of service.
“I feel delighted today to be among the awardees from this prestigious institution. Many are called but few are chosen,” he said.
The commissioner dedicated the award to Governor Bassey Otu, members of the State Executive Council, staff of the Ministry of Works and his family for their support throughout his public service career.
Other award recipients included Prince Edwin Okon, Chairman of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, who received the Distinguished Public Service and Partnership Award for outstanding leadership in improving internally generated revenue.
Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Hilary Bisong, who received the Guardian of the Set Award.
Forestry Commission Chairman, Hon. Oyo Idem, recipient of the Steward of Growth and Green Legacy Award;
Accountant-General Mrs Glory Tony Effiong, honoured with the Custodian of Public Trust Award.
Yakurr I lawmaker, Hon. Cyril Omini, who bagged the Grassroots Empowerment Award.
Also recognised were Arc. Ekpo Akaba, National President of HAWOSA Worldwide, received the Architect of Unity Award.
Mr Ekpenyong Otu, honoured with the Brotherhood and Loyalty Award.
Austin Nkanta, recipient of the Golden Supporter Award.
Global Coordinator Nkute Hogan, also received the Legacy Leadership Award.
While Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, was honoured with the Voice of the Nation Award.
The association also highlighted its contributions to Hope Waddell Training Institution, including the construction of a canopy walkway, installation of dormitory fans, renovation of the Agricultural Science Laboratory, provision of scholarships for SS1 and SS2 students and welfare support initiatives for members.
