By Becky Maina
The grounds of Federal Government College, Azare (FGCA) came alive last weekend as members of the Class of 1994 returned to their alma mater for a reunion that was as emotional as it was inspiring.
After 31 years apart, the old students gathered under the theme “Greater Together” to reconnect, reflect on their journey, and reaffirm their commitment to supporting the institution that shaped their lives.
*A Homecoming of Hearts*
From the moment they walked through the gates, laughter and nostalgia filled the air. Many paused to take in familiar sights the classrooms, hostels, and assembly grounds where their teenage dreams were born.
Principal of the college, Dr. Bukar Burkarbe in an address of welcome ,described them as proud ambassadors of the FGCA legacy.
“You are the living testimony of what this school represents,” he said. “Your return reminds our students that greatness starts with discipline and small beginnings.”
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Bappah Tata, described the reunion as a labour of love that took months of dedication.
“It took love, patience, and teamwork to bring everyone together,” he said. “FGC Azare shaped who we are, and that bond is forever.”
He noted that organizing the reunion went beyond logistics it was an emotional journey that rekindled long-lost connections.
“Many of us hadn’t seen each other since 1994,” he reflected. “Through this process, we rediscovered friendships, shared laughter again, and remembered how much this school meant to us. Today, standing here, we are reminded that time may pass, but true friendship never fades.”
In his keynote address, Set Chairperson, Nuhu Mailafiya, spoke passionately about gratitude, unity, and giving back.
“FGC Azare wasn’t just a school; it was a foundation that built our values and courage to dream,” he said. “We return not only to remember but to give back to inspire, to support, and to build legacies that will outlive us.”
Mailafiya, visibly moved as he addressed his former classmates and teachers, reflected on the emotional depth of returning after three decades.
“Standing here, the memories come rushing backthe faces, the laughter, even the challenges that shaped our resilience,” he said. “We’ve come full circle. This reunion isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about purpose about ensuring that the school that built us continues to build others.”
He urged members of the set to continue supporting the college’s development and mentoring current students, describing their reunion as “a bridge between generations.”
I*Inspiring the Future*
The day’s most engaging moment came during the motivational session featuring Danjuma Garba and Kabati Tokara, who encouraged students to dream big and lead with integrity.
“When we were here, we dreamed of who we wanted to become—doctors, engineers, journalists, and leaders,” Garba said. “Dreams come true through hard work, character, and self-belief.”
Tokara added that leadership starts early.
“Leadership begins in how you treat others, how you take responsibility, and how you rise after failure,” she told the students.
The students, in turn, shared their own aspirations—to become doctors, lawyers, journalists, innovators, and entrepreneurs—reflecting the lasting impact of the day’s message.
Walking Through Yesterday
A nostalgic tour of the school grounds brought mixed emotions. The alumni expressed delight at the visible progress in infrastructure: the once-uncompleted dining hall now fully in use, a secure perimeter wall fence, renovated administrative blocks, upgraded hostels, and a well-equipped sickbay.
They also noted the near-completion of the school chapel, now 90 percent done—a significant milestone for the Christian community, who for decades held services in classrooms and dining halls.
However, not every scene was cheerful. The once vibrant sports field, where inter-house competitions and football matches once echoed with cheers, now lay overgrown with grass.
“This field taught us teamwork and built friendships,” recalled Ishag Kwargana, the 1994 Assistant Head Boy. “We hope to see it alive again soon.”
The tour became a reflection on time, change, and shared responsibility—to restore what once was and preserve what now stands.
A Night to Remember
The celebration culminated in a grand reunion dinner, where laughter, music, and dancing filled the night. Members shared memories of youthful mischief—sneaking to “Babylon,” skipping prep, and singing on sandy paths.
As the reunion banner fluttered under the evening breeze, its inscription summed up the spirit of the day:
“We Came for Knowledge, We Left with Lifelong Friendships. 31 Years Later, We’re Back! Building Legacies.”
In his closing remarks, Stephen Ajiya urged continued unity and contribution to the school’s development, stating that, “We are stronger together, and our impact must continue to grow,” he said.
A Legacy Renewed
Over the years, the FGCA ’94 Set has made notable contributions to the college, including replacing the old school gate and renovating a classroom block to enhance learning conditions.
Thirty-one years later, the Class of ’94 has proven that the ties forged within those school walls are more than memories—they are lifelong commitments.
Indeed, the reunion wasn’t just about looking back—it was a promise to keep building forward, greater together.