It was a weekend filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt nostalgia as members of the Mass Communication Class of 1998 from Delta State University, Abraka, reunited in Asaba after nearly three decades apart.
The colourful event, aptly themed “Reconnect, Relive, and Reunite,” brought together men and women who once shared lecture halls, newsroom practicals, and countless memories as undergraduates. Now accomplished professionals and family heads, they came together once more — not just to celebrate the passage of time, but to rekindle the enduring bonds of friendship that have stood strong for 27 years.
From the moment the first hugs were exchanged, the atmosphere was electric with excitement and nostalgia. The Indomitable Class of ’98, as they proudly call themselves, reminisced on their university days — recalling late-night study sessions, newsroom deadlines, and campus adventures that shaped their lives.
A Celebration of Journeys and Achievements
The reunion featured an inspiring blend of reflection, laughter, and networking. It was a time to share stories of resilience and growth — stories of classmates who have risen to become government officials, senior lecturers, media executives, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.
Presided over by the group’s Coordinator, Thompson Tonwei Ebaretonbofa, the gathering was both emotional and exhilarating. There were many moments of surprise as some could barely recognise old friends from their youth — “when men were boys and the ladies were babes,” as one participant humorously noted.
Even those unable to attend physically, including Dr. Boniface Onyedi, the pioneer Coordinator and current aide to Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, joined virtually through video calls and goodwill messages, sharing in the collective joy of renewed friendship.
Words from Members
Speaking at the event, Hon. Samuel Oligida, Delta State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, expressed deep happiness at reconnecting with his classmates after so many years. He emphasised the power of unity, love, and collaboration, while highlighting new business and investment opportunities available under the Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration in Delta State.
Also present were Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, and Comrade Churchill Oyowe, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council. Both men gave heartfelt thanks to God for preserving the group through the years and expressed confidence that the Indomitables would continue to make meaningful contributions to society.
Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future
Speakers took turns to celebrate the organisers for reuniting the class after almost three decades. They expressed gratitude to God for how far each member has come — excelling in their chosen careers both within and outside Nigeria.
Chairman of the Reunion Organising Committee and Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Nkem Nwaeke, described the gathering as “a reunion of hearts.” He said the event provided a platform to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate shared experiences while renewing bonds for the future. He attributed their preservation to divine grace and reaffirmed their collective commitment to love, friendship, and progress.
New Leadership for a New Era
To strengthen the association and sustain the renewed momentum, a new Executive Committee was inaugurated to pilot its affairs:
Coordinator: Thompson Ebaretonbofa (Senior Lecturer)
Deputy Coordinator: Churchill Oyowe (Deputy Director, Delta State Ministry of Information)
Secretary: Kelly Odaro (Senior Lecturer, Auchi Polytechnic)
Treasurer: Mary Amaechi Ofuokwu (Vice Principal)
Patrons: Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Hon. Samuel Oligida, and James Akpomiemie (Top Executive, Globacom)
Advisers: Lawrence Okpewho (Retired Deputy General Manager) and Matthew Ogwezhi (Managing Director, Capital Assurance)
Diaspora Coordinators: Jolly Iguodala (UK-based Entrepreneur) and Dr. Angela Ogbedebe (USA-based).
A Toast to Friendship and Gratitude
In a show of appreciation, the group passed a motion — moved by Nkem Nwaeke and seconded by Kingsley Okiroro — thanking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing two members of the Class of ’98, Hon. Oligida and Prof. Ufuophu-Biri, into strategic positions in his administration. Members also applauded the Governor’s developmental strides and pledged their continued support for his leadership and vision.
The gathering further commended classmates serving in various capacities for their dedication to public service and societal advancement, encouraging all members to remain exemplary ambassadors of the Indomitable Class of ’98.
Music, Memories, and Merriment
The reunion reached its peak with an evening of music, dancing, and laughter, as spouses and children joined in celebrating the enduring spirit of unity and excellence that defines the group. Old songs, jokes, and photographs rekindled memories of youthful days, reminding everyone that time may have passed, but friendship never fades.
A communiqué issued at the end of the reunion resolved that future meetings will hold biennially, with the next edition scheduled for October 2027 in Abraka, the very campus where their story began.
As the curtains drew on the reunion, one message rang clear — the Indomitable Class of ’98 is more than just a group of graduates; it is a family bound by shared memories, mutual respect, and a legacy of excellence that continues to shine bright.
