ASABA/Nigeria: It was an atmosphere of excitement, camaraderie, laughter, and nostalgia as students of the Class of 1998, Mass Communications Department of Delta State University, Abraka, gathered at the weekend in Asaba to reminisce on their university days and strengthen their bond as a family.
The colourful reunion, themed *“Reconnect, Relive and Reunite,”* provided a platform for the “Indomitable Class of ’98” to celebrate their journey 27 years after graduation, rekindle old friendships, and chart a new course for the future.
The event featured a blend of business, politics, entertainment, and social activities, with members reflecting on their time on campus and sharing stories of growth and accomplishment. Many have since risen to become government officials, top administrators, university lecturers, chief executives, and entrepreneurs.
Presided over by the group’s Coordinator, Thompson Tonwei Ebaretonbofa, the ceremony offered moments of surprise and laughter as classmates struggled to recognize one another after nearly three decades since their youthful days in Abraka.
Those who could not attend, including the pioneer Coordinator and aide to the Rivers State Governor, Dr. Boniface Onyedi, joined virtually via video calls and goodwill messages to share in the spirit of renewed friendship.
Addressing the gathering, the Delta State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Samuel Oligida, expressed delight at reuniting with his former classmates and emphasized love, unity, and mutual support among members. He highlighted the vast business and investment opportunities in the state under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
Similarly, the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, thanked God for sustaining the group over the years and expressed optimism that the Indomitables would continue to contribute to society’s development.
Others who spoke paid glowing tributes to the organizers for uniting the classmates after nearly three decades and expressed gratitude that many had achieved success in diverse fields across the world.
Reflecting on the theme *“Reconnect, Relive and Reunite,”* members recalled their unforgettable days in Abraka between 1994 and 1998, recounting high and low moments with nostalgia and appreciation.
Chairman of the Reunion Organizing Committee and Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Nkem Nwaeke, commended members for their participation, describing the reunion as a huge success and a testament to enduring friendship and faith in God’s grace.
He said the gathering provided an opportunity to network, celebrate achievements, and renew commitments to shared values of unity and mutual progress.
A new executive committee was inaugurated to steer the association’s affairs and promote initiatives beneficial to members, their families, the university, and society.
Those inaugurated included Thompson Ebaretonbofa as Coordinator, Churchill Oyowe as Deputy Coordinator, Kelly Odaro as Secretary, and Mary Amaechi Ofuokwu as Treasurer. Patrons include Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Hon. Samuel Oligida, and James Akpomiemie, while advisers are Lawrence Okpewho and Matthew Ogwezhi. UK-based entrepreneur, Jolly Iguodala, and US-based Dr. Angela Ogbedebe were named Diaspora Coordinators.
The group expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing two members of the Indomitable Class of ’98—Hon. Sam Oligida and Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri—into key positions in his administration.
A motion moved by Nkem Nwaeke and seconded by Kingsley Okiroro commended the governor for his developmental strides and pledged support for his re-election in 2027 under the “Renewed Hope for More” agenda.
Members also lauded colleagues in public service for their dedication, professionalism, and contributions to governance, education, and institutional growth.
The reunion, attended by spouses and children of members, climaxed with music, dancing, and emotional moments as classmates celebrated their enduring spirit of unity and excellence.
A communiqué issued at the end of the business session resolved that future reunions would be held biennially, with the next edition scheduled for October 2027 in Abraka.
