The Corona Schools 70th Anniversary Black Tie Gala, which held on Saturday, June 14, exceeded expectations as a grand spectacle that lived up to anticipation.
Held at the Jewel Aeida, Lekki’s most stunning venue, this gathering transcended a typical school reunion. It was indeed an epic celebration of seven decades of educational excellence, enduring friendships, and unbreakable bonds.
The grand reunion drew in alumni from all corners — Apapa (now Corona College of Education), Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Ebute Metta/Yaba (now Gbagada), Agbara, and Lekki — each branch bringing its own unique thread to the vibrant Corona Schools tapestry.
Not even the persistent rain on the day could dampen the electric atmosphere, as weeks of strategic promotion by the media and publicity committee, led by alumnus Ayoola Sadare (Shaddie Bobo), CEO of Inspiro Productions, had built anticipation across print, broadcast, online, and social media platforms.
By the time the red carpet rolled out, excitement was palpable, as it was transformed into a dazzling scene, bursting with laughter, dramatic poses, lively interviews, and energetic dance moves that captured the night’s unforgettable essence.
The hall was abuzz with elegantly dressed alumni, faculty, friends, and family, all set to revisit old memories and forge new ones. Smiling hostesses warmly welcomed guests, setting the tone for a hospitable evening.
Jewel Aeida’s grandeur perfectly matched the event’s sophistication. Soft lighting, flowing drapes, and floral arrangements celebrating Corona’s heritage made the hall shine. The atmosphere struck a perfect balance — warm, dignified, and festive — reflecting the school’s 70-year tradition of blending discipline with elegance.
Nollywood icon Keppy Ekpenyong Bassey-Inyang and veteran broadcaster Toun Aderenle brought the house down with their effortless charm, humor, and nostalgic tales, seamlessly connecting different generations of alumni and stirring up memories that echoed with every guest.
The stunning souvenir brochure filled with treasured memories, alumni profiles, branch histories, and stories of impact became a coveted collector’s item. Its demand was so high that even non-attendees requested the digital e-copy. The event’s global reach was further amplified by a live stream, allowing alumni worldwide to experience the magic firsthand.
The evening’s culinary experience exceeded expectations, with guests savouring premium drinks, vibrant cocktails, and gourmet canapés that flowed effortlessly. The main course showcased a stunning array of local and continental flavours, expertly curated by four top-notch catering teams.
As conversations flowed, laughter echoed, glasses clinked, and old friends reconnected over incredible meals, amid warm and lively camaraderie that filled the night.
The formal program kicked off with Alumni Association President Adebayo Ademiluyi’s emotional opening remarks, followed by a moment of silence to honour members who have passed away.
Roland Abiola Odukomaiya, Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, perfectly encapsulated the evening’s mood with this statement: “Tonight, we honour not only the past but the promise of the future. Corona has gifted us values that transcend generations. We are products of excellence, resilience, and a legacy that continues to impact the world.”
The Corona School Choir delivered a heartfelt performance of the school anthem, while younger students from Ikoyi charmed the audience with classic school songs that brought back fond memories.
Saxophonist Saratu El Samaila, a talented alumna whose mother also attended the school, wowed the crowd with a soulful rendition that left many entranced. Her parents, who traveled from Minna to Lagos for the event, beamed with pride as they watched her shine on stage.
Reflecting on the school’s legacy, former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke (Apapa School) said the school’s true impact lies in its mentorship, values, and leadership development, going beyond academics.
“Corona has always been more than academics. It’s about mentorship, nurturing values, and preparing minds for leadership. That’s its real legacy,” he reminisced.
This was corroborated by another Apapa school alumnus, Mr. Akin Sawyerr, Managing Director of Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), who also reminisced about the school’s foundational role in shaping future leaders.
Other notable figures at the event include former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who sparked laughter and applause when he declared Yaba as “the first and best.” While Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Yemi Cardoso (Ikoyi School), Sahara Oil CEO, Dr. Tony Cole (Victoria Island School), chimed in, proudly representing their own Lagos neighbourhoods.
Also, at the event was the Managing Director of Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Ikeja, Dr Oluyemisi Odubayo (Apapa School), and Bose Ogulu (Burna Boy’s mother) who proudly flew the flag of Agbara School, celebrating her children’s academic achievements.
The evening’s crowning moment was the ongoing ₦200 million fundraising initiative, passionately driven by Caroline Olaseinde and the fundraising committee. The committee’s effort paid off drawing in VIPs and securing substantial funds for the Tech Hub’s construction and a scholarship endowment fund.
Earlier, the chief executive officer of Corona Schools Trust Council, Mrs. Adeyoyin Adeshina, had unveiled one of the anniversary’s ambitious legacy projects — a state-of-the-art Tech Hub designed to future-proof students for the digital age.
“Education must evolve. This Tech Hub will prepare our children for a rapidly changing world filled with possibilities,” she declared. Reflecting on the milestone, the chairperson of the Corona Trust Council, Justice Bukunola Adebiyi said, “Seventy years is not just a number. It’s lives transformed, dreams birthed, and a commitment to excellence that remains unshaken.”
On his part, the Chairman of Metis Capital Partners, Keem Belo-Osagie, an Ikoyi alumnus, highlighted the school’s pioneering legacy, noting that Ikoyi Creche, originally known as Corona Day Nursery, was the first of the Corona Schools, setting the pace for the others.
After the speeches wrapped up, Co-Chairperson of the organising committee, Sola Alamutu (The Green Queen) stepped onto the stage alongside the organizing committee members amid the thunderous applause.
