The Zumratul Islamiyyah Grammar School Old Students Association has taken significant steps to support its alma mater and empower the next generation of students. The association recently organized an event where they provided cash support to less privileged students and donated educational materials to the school, further solidifying their dedication to uplifting their community.


This is the fifth edition of its recognition program, aimed at encouraging outstanding performance among current and former students and promoting a culture of reading and literacy.

National President Lateef Jokomba, speaking at the event, emphasized the importance of celebrating hard work and dedication. “We gather to celebrate the fruits of hard work, dedication to duty, and the pursuit of excellence. Your achievements, whether academic, extracurricular, or personal, are a testimony to your potential and the bright futures that lie ahead of you,” he said.

The recognition program highlights achievements in academics, leadership, creativity, and citizenship. This year, the association honored former international footballer and Green Eagles star Haruna Olatunji Illirika as the 2025 ambassador of the school.

Jokomba noted, “We have been encouraging and motivating our students to excel academically and uphold strong moral values. There is no doubt that this has positively impacted their results and behavior within the community.”

Renowned sports journalist Yomi Opakunle provided a historical perspective, highlighting the school’s proud legacy in sports. “In 1970, this school won for the first and only time, with Haruna Ilerika as the piper. He went on to represent Nigeria and was part of the Nigerian team that won the gold medal at the 1973 All-African Games in Lagos,” he recalled.

National Secretary Musiliu Agoro praised the students’ academic achievements, citing their excellence in spelling bees and Quranic dissertation competitions. “This program is yielding fruits, proving that it’s not just about learning but about holistic development,” he said.

In a show of generosity, Prince Olayiwola Oyedele Shotomiwa, a former Senior Prefect and member of the 1991 graduating class, announced cash gifts of 25,000 naira each to vulnerable students across different levels. The recipients included:

SS1: Bello Azeezat and Oyerinde Emmanuel

SS2: Durojaye Hammed and Musbaudeen Sultan

JSS2: Omogbemi Elijah and Shopitan Abdulazeem Ajibola

JSS3: Oke AbdulRahmon and Lawal Ameerat


The donations were sponsored by the Laulat Memorial Foundation, founded by Shotomiwa.

The Principal of the school, Bamidele Lawal expressed gratitude to the Old Students Association for their ongoing support. “In terms of construction, protecting library books, and student welfare, they have always been there for us,” he remarked.

Students who received awards shared their enthusiasm and hope for the future. One student said, “This will surely help me in my academics because it motivates me to work harder in life.”

Another awardee expressed joy and disbelief at the honor, saying, “I’m very glad because this is a privilege. Back in JSS1, I never dreamed of coming to this podium, but now I see myself as someone who can achieve great things.”