ILEGRAMS 88/93 SET
Where the past meets the present - and memories last forever.
About Ilegrams Class of 88/93
In January 1988, two hundred and eight (208) Junior Secondary School kids continued their life journey at the then prestigious Ilesa Grammar School (popularly known as Ilegrams) in the old Oyo State of Nigeria. At various points between 1988 and 1992, there were departures from the school and arrivals to the school by members of this special set, which is why we’re referred to as 88/93 set. Most of the then kids had no idea what lay ahead of them in life but whatever they’ve become today has a lot to do with their training at this school.
The quality of education in today’s public schools in Nigeria is so different from what we benefited from, so one of our primary objectives is to continually touch the lives of as many current students as possible in a positive way.
News and Events
Finance Unlocked: Making Your Money Work Overtime
Join us for an illuminating session with the CEO of Firstallon Limited, where you’ll gain direct insights into a diverse set of financial products.
See more
Core Values
At the heart of our alumni community are the values that guide how we connect, support, and grow together. We proudly uphold the principles of H.E.R.O. — a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.
Buy our Book
“The Ilegrams 42” is more than a book — it is a living, breathing tapestry of stories, pain, triumph, and undying hope. Authored by 42 distinguished alumni of Ilesa Grammar School’s Class of 1993, this powerful collection of biographical essays captures the incredible journeys of a generation that came of age in the shadows of Nigeria’s economic and social upheavals.
These are not just stories — they are lived experiences.
From medicine to engineering, from law to logistics, these alumni have not only shaped their own futures but have also become shining examples of what it means to persevere, rebuild, and overcome. Each narrative is a capsule of transformation — showing how individuals carved out success against mighty odds, often with faith as their only anchor.
And yet, this book is not just about personal victories. It is also a collective tribute — a heartfelt remembrance of seven classmates whose journeys were cut short by the cold hands of fate. Their memory breathes through these pages, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community.
Read the FOREWORD by Professor Ebenezer Obadare, Senior Fellow for Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Washington DC., United States of America
Our Responsibility
In addition to developing current students and making the school more conducive for learning, we also give back to residents of the Ilesa community through various charitable initiatives
Current Students
We positively impact the lives of current students through mentorship programs and award of scholarships. These disadvantaged kids learn under very difficult circumstances so we believe that our best efforts, however little they are, will undoubtedly make them better whilst giving them a chance in life.
Our School
We long to see the Ilegrams of old. The “Empire” Building, Lahanmi Memorial Library, Science laboratories, Fine Art studio, and sporting facilities - to mention but a few - are a shadow of what they used to be. This school gave us a lot therefore we shall not fold our arms and watch it decay. With the right resources, we can restore the glory and pride of the school. This is exactly what we plan on doing.
The Community
Through carefully thought out charitable initiatives such as “Ilesa secret santa” and “operation free a patient”, we’ve been able to positively impact the lives of many families with or without ties to Ilesa Grammar school. These individuals benefit simply because they belong to the same community that produced us.
About Ilegrams
Ilesa Grammar School is a co-educational grammar school located in ilesa Osun State Nigeria. It was founded in February 5, 1934 by Egbe Atunluse Ijesa (i.e. Ijesa Improvement Society). The school Originally started informally at its temporary site V5A Igbaye street Ilesa in the western part of Nigeria on Monday 29th January 1934, after a competitive entrance examination held on 18th January 1934.
The school is presently owned and run by the government of Osun state. In addition to that, significant contribution to its development comes from its Alumni association. This is a longstanding tradition. Presently, the school conducts both West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council of Nigeria (NECO).
Historical Perspective
The school was founded by “Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa” which literally means “Ijesa Improvement Society”. Olaleye Falore remarked in his book: The Story and Memoirs of Ilesa Grammar School, “The society was made up of youths who believed that the future of the Ijesaman and of the totality of Ijesaland’s development rested on solid educational foundation. Paradoxically, these honourable and public-spirited gentlemen themselves did not have the benefit of Western education. They saw to the future educational opportunities. The Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa played a gigantic role in bringing about sporadic changes in terms of civilisation, growth, advancement, improvement and progress of Ijesaland and its people”,
9th April, 1924
On 9th April, 1924 during one of her meetings, a member in person of Dr Oguntola Sapara moved a motion that “emphasis should now be laid on educational matters concerning Ijesa”.
This motion was accepted and there was a dream to originate a spring from which will flow a fountain of knowledge which has survived for nearly a century. Dr Ogutola Sapara was the first Ijesa man and ninth Nigerian to qualify as a medical doctor in 1895. The crave for post primary education by Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa could be traced back to the establishment of primary schools by the missionaries. Notable among such primary schools are St John’s Primary School, Iloro (1888); Methodist Primary School, Otapete (1892).
25th July, 1924
On Friday 25th July, 1924, the Egbe Atuluse agreed in principle to name the proposed school as “Owa’s National Industrial School”. After several consultations and afterthought, in 1928 it was proposed to be Ijesa Grammar School. However, in the same 1928 Mr J.S. Oginni suggested the name “Ilesa Grammar School” and this was accepted. The choice of “Grammar” school was to distinguish the school from the existing schools at the time. Ondo had Ondo Boys High School while Ile-Ife was to have a College that would be called Oduduwa College. It is worthy of note that between 1965 and 1978 there was an interregnum when the school was called “Ijesa Comprehensive High School”.
22 July, 1928
The choice of the present site was influenced by proximity to the first major street passing through Ilesa in the 16th century. The size of land was to accommodate appreciable number of classroom blocks, laboratories, library, sports facilities, agricultural farms, orchards, boarding facilities and staff quarters. Egbe Atuluse held a meeting on Sunday 22 July, 1928 and the building plan of the school was approved by members.
18 January, 1934
After lots of things were put in place, an entrance examination was conducted on the 18th of January, 1934. Twenty-one boys were admitted into the new school. Among them were Emmanuel Asaolu (later chenged to Fafowora), Ezekiel Aofolajuwonlo, Elder John Aoko, Enoch Ayeni, Gabriel Aluko-Oluokun, Habibu Karimu, Samuel Doherty, Adolphous Doherty and Eric Mabayoje. The boys were aged between 18-26 yrs and were from diverse backgrounds. Because of the diversity in age, academic backgrounds and their experience, the boys were categorized into 3 classes being class one (3), class two (8) and class three (10). Another entrance examination was conducted on Thursday February 1, 1934 and additional thirteen students were offered admission although not all thirteen eventually registered.
5th February, 1934
On Monday 5th February 1934 in Ilesa, In the years when Sir Donald Charles Cameron was the Governor of Colonial Nigeria, Captain J. A. Mackenzie the District Officer for Ife/Ilesa, and Oba Oduyomade Aromolaran I the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland; history was made at a special colourful event presided over by the District Officer himself – Ilesa Grammar School was formally birthed bringing into reality, the first secondary school (premier grammar school) in Ijesaland and second in present day (2019) State of Osun. Since the formal opening took place on Monday February 5, 1934 this has always been marked as Founder’s Day till date. After resumption, the boys were told during orientation on how to behave and comport themselves in and outside the school as ‘Grammarians’
ILEGRAMS 88/93 SET
Where the past meets the present - and memories last forever.
About Ilegrams Class of 88/93
In January 1988, two hundred and eight (208) Junior Secondary School kids continued their life journey at the then prestigious Ilesa Grammar School (popularly known as Ilegrams) in the old Oyo State of Nigeria. At various points between 1988 and 1992, there were departures from the school and arrivals to the school by members of this special set, which is why we’re referred to as 88/93 set. Most of the then kids had no idea what lay ahead of them in life but whatever they’ve become today has a lot to do with their training at this school.
The quality of education in today’s public schools in Nigeria is so different from what we benefited from, so one of our primary objectives is to continually touch the lives of as many current students as possible in a positive way.
News and Events
Finance Unlocked: Making Your Money Work Overtime
Join us for an illuminating session with the CEO of Firstallon Limited, where you’ll gain direct insights into a diverse set of financial products.
See more
Core Values
At the heart of our alumni community are the values that guide how we connect, support, and grow together. We proudly uphold the principles of H.E.R.O. — a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.
Buy our Book
“The Ilegrams 42” is more than a book — it is a living, breathing tapestry of stories, pain, triumph, and undying hope. Authored by 42 distinguished alumni of Ilesa Grammar School’s Class of 1993, this powerful collection of biographical essays captures the incredible journeys of a generation that came of age in the shadows of Nigeria’s economic and social upheavals.
These are not just stories — they are lived experiences.
From medicine to engineering, from law to logistics, these alumni have not only shaped their own futures but have also become shining examples of what it means to persevere, rebuild, and overcome. Each narrative is a capsule of transformation — showing how individuals carved out success against mighty odds, often with faith as their only anchor.
And yet, this book is not just about personal victories. It is also a collective tribute — a heartfelt remembrance of seven classmates whose journeys were cut short by the cold hands of fate. Their memory breathes through these pages, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community.
Read the FOREWORD by Professor Ebenezer Obadare, Senior Fellow for Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Washington DC., United States of America
Our Responsibility
In addition to developing current students and making the school more conducive for learning, we also give back to residents of the Ilesa community through various charitable initiatives
Current Students
We positively impact the lives of current students through mentorship programs and award of scholarships. These disadvantaged kids learn under very difficult circumstances so we believe that our best efforts, however little they are, will undoubtedly make them better whilst giving them a chance in life.
Our School
We long to see the Ilegrams of old. The “Empire” Building, Lahanmi Memorial Library, Science laboratories, Fine Art studio, and sporting facilities - to mention but a few - are a shadow of what they used to be. This school gave us a lot therefore we shall not fold our arms and watch it decay. With the right resources, we can restore the glory and pride of the school. This is exactly what we plan on doing.
The Community
Through carefully thought out charitable initiatives such as “Ilesa secret santa” and “operation free a patient”, we’ve been able to positively impact the lives of many families with or without ties to Ilesa Grammar school. These individuals benefit simply because they belong to the same community that produced us.
About Ilegrams
Ilesa Grammar School is a co-educational grammar school located in ilesa Osun State Nigeria. It was founded in February 5, 1934 by Egbe Atunluse Ijesa (i.e. Ijesa Improvement Society). The school Originally started informally at its temporary site V5A Igbaye street Ilesa in the western part of Nigeria on Monday 29th January 1934, after a competitive entrance examination held on 18th January 1934.
The school is presently owned and run by the government of Osun state. In addition to that, significant contribution to its development comes from its Alumni association. This is a longstanding tradition. Presently, the school conducts both West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council of Nigeria (NECO).
Historical Perspective
The school was founded by “Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa” which literally means “Ijesa Improvement Society”. Olaleye Falore remarked in his book: The Story and Memoirs of Ilesa Grammar School, “The society was made up of youths who believed that the future of the Ijesaman and of the totality of Ijesaland’s development rested on solid educational foundation. Paradoxically, these honourable and public-spirited gentlemen themselves did not have the benefit of Western education. They saw to the future educational opportunities. The Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa played a gigantic role in bringing about sporadic changes in terms of civilisation, growth, advancement, improvement and progress of Ijesaland and its people”,
9th April, 1924
On 9th April, 1924 during one of her meetings, a member in person of Dr Oguntola Sapara moved a motion that “emphasis should now be laid on educational matters concerning Ijesa”.
This motion was accepted and there was a dream to originate a spring from which will flow a fountain of knowledge which has survived for nearly a century. Dr Ogutola Sapara was the first Ijesa man and ninth Nigerian to qualify as a medical doctor in 1895. The crave for post primary education by Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa could be traced back to the establishment of primary schools by the missionaries. Notable among such primary schools are St John’s Primary School, Iloro (1888); Methodist Primary School, Otapete (1892).
25th July, 1924
On Friday 25th July, 1924, the Egbe Atuluse agreed in principle to name the proposed school as “Owa’s National Industrial School”. After several consultations and afterthought, in 1928 it was proposed to be Ijesa Grammar School. However, in the same 1928 Mr J.S. Oginni suggested the name “Ilesa Grammar School” and this was accepted. The choice of “Grammar” school was to distinguish the school from the existing schools at the time. Ondo had Ondo Boys High School while Ile-Ife was to have a College that would be called Oduduwa College. It is worthy of note that between 1965 and 1978 there was an interregnum when the school was called “Ijesa Comprehensive High School”.
22 July, 1928
The choice of the present site was influenced by proximity to the first major street passing through Ilesa in the 16th century. The size of land was to accommodate appreciable number of classroom blocks, laboratories, library, sports facilities, agricultural farms, orchards, boarding facilities and staff quarters. Egbe Atuluse held a meeting on Sunday 22 July, 1928 and the building plan of the school was approved by members.
18 January, 1934
After lots of things were put in place, an entrance examination was conducted on the 18th of January, 1934. Twenty-one boys were admitted into the new school. Among them were Emmanuel Asaolu (later chenged to Fafowora), Ezekiel Aofolajuwonlo, Elder John Aoko, Enoch Ayeni, Gabriel Aluko-Oluokun, Habibu Karimu, Samuel Doherty, Adolphous Doherty and Eric Mabayoje. The boys were aged between 18-26 yrs and were from diverse backgrounds. Because of the diversity in age, academic backgrounds and their experience, the boys were categorized into 3 classes being class one (3), class two (8) and class three (10). Another entrance examination was conducted on Thursday February 1, 1934 and additional thirteen students were offered admission although not all thirteen eventually registered.
5th February, 1934
On Monday 5th February 1934 in Ilesa, In the years when Sir Donald Charles Cameron was the Governor of Colonial Nigeria, Captain J. A. Mackenzie the District Officer for Ife/Ilesa, and Oba Oduyomade Aromolaran I the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland; history was made at a special colourful event presided over by the District Officer himself – Ilesa Grammar School was formally birthed bringing into reality, the first secondary school (premier grammar school) in Ijesaland and second in present day (2019) State of Osun. Since the formal opening took place on Monday February 5, 1934 this has always been marked as Founder’s Day till date. After resumption, the boys were told during orientation on how to behave and comport themselves in and outside the school as ‘Grammarians’
ILEGRAMS 88/93 SET
Where the past meets the present - and memories last forever.
About Ilegrams Class of 88/93
In January 1988, two hundred and eight (208) Junior Secondary School kids continued their life journey at the then prestigious Ilesa Grammar School (popularly known as Ilegrams) in the old Oyo State of Nigeria. At various points between 1988 and 1992, there were departures from the school and arrivals to the school by members of this special set, which is why we’re referred to as 88/93 set. Most of the then kids had no idea what lay ahead of them in life but whatever they’ve become today has a lot to do with their training at this school.
The quality of education in today’s public schools in Nigeria is so different from what we benefited from, so one of our primary objectives is to continually touch the lives of as many current students as possible in a positive way.
News and Events
Finance Unlocked: Making Your Money Work Overtime
Join us for an illuminating session with the CEO of Firstallon Limited, where you’ll gain direct insights into a diverse set of financial products.
See more
Core Values
At the heart of our alumni community are the values that guide how we connect, support, and grow together. We proudly uphold the principles of H.E.R.O. — a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.
Buy our Book
“The Ilegrams 42” is more than a book — it is a living, breathing tapestry of stories, pain, triumph, and undying hope. Authored by 42 distinguished alumni of Ilesa Grammar School’s Class of 1993, this powerful collection of biographical essays captures the incredible journeys of a generation that came of age in the shadows of Nigeria’s economic and social upheavals.
These are not just stories — they are lived experiences.
From medicine to engineering, from law to logistics, these alumni have not only shaped their own futures but have also become shining examples of what it means to persevere, rebuild, and overcome. Each narrative is a capsule of transformation — showing how individuals carved out success against mighty odds, often with faith as their only anchor.
And yet, this book is not just about personal victories. It is also a collective tribute — a heartfelt remembrance of seven classmates whose journeys were cut short by the cold hands of fate. Their memory breathes through these pages, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community.
Read the FOREWORD by Professor Ebenezer Obadare, Senior Fellow for Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Washington DC., United States of America
Our Responsibility
In addition to developing current students and making the school more conducive for learning, we also give back to residents of the Ilesa community through various charitable initiatives
Current Students
We positively impact the lives of current students through mentorship programs and award of scholarships. These disadvantaged kids learn under very difficult circumstances so we believe that our best efforts, however little they are, will undoubtedly make them better whilst giving them a chance in life.
Our School
We long to see the Ilegrams of old. The “Empire” Building, Lahanmi Memorial Library, Science laboratories, Fine Art studio, and sporting facilities - to mention but a few - are a shadow of what they used to be. This school gave us a lot therefore we shall not fold our arms and watch it decay. With the right resources, we can restore the glory and pride of the school. This is exactly what we plan on doing.
The Community
Through carefully thought out charitable initiatives such as “Ilesa secret santa” and “operation free a patient”, we’ve been able to positively impact the lives of many families with or without ties to Ilesa Grammar school. These individuals benefit simply because they belong to the same community that produced us.
About Ilegrams
Ilesa Grammar School is a co-educational grammar school located in ilesa Osun State Nigeria. It was founded in February 5, 1934 by Egbe Atunluse Ijesa (i.e. Ijesa Improvement Society). The school Originally started informally at its temporary site V5A Igbaye street Ilesa in the western part of Nigeria on Monday 29th January 1934, after a competitive entrance examination held on 18th January 1934.
The school is presently owned and run by the government of Osun state. In addition to that, significant contribution to its development comes from its Alumni association. This is a longstanding tradition. Presently, the school conducts both West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council of Nigeria (NECO).
Historical Perspective
The school was founded by “Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa” which literally means “Ijesa Improvement Society”. Olaleye Falore remarked in his book: The Story and Memoirs of Ilesa Grammar School, “The society was made up of youths who believed that the future of the Ijesaman and of the totality of Ijesaland’s development rested on solid educational foundation. Paradoxically, these honourable and public-spirited gentlemen themselves did not have the benefit of Western education. They saw to the future educational opportunities. The Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa played a gigantic role in bringing about sporadic changes in terms of civilisation, growth, advancement, improvement and progress of Ijesaland and its people”,
9th April, 1924
On 9th April, 1924 during one of her meetings, a member in person of Dr Oguntola Sapara moved a motion that “emphasis should now be laid on educational matters concerning Ijesa”.
This motion was accepted and there was a dream to originate a spring from which will flow a fountain of knowledge which has survived for nearly a century. Dr Ogutola Sapara was the first Ijesa man and ninth Nigerian to qualify as a medical doctor in 1895. The crave for post primary education by Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa could be traced back to the establishment of primary schools by the missionaries. Notable among such primary schools are St John’s Primary School, Iloro (1888); Methodist Primary School, Otapete (1892).
25th July, 1924
On Friday 25th July, 1924, the Egbe Atuluse agreed in principle to name the proposed school as “Owa’s National Industrial School”. After several consultations and afterthought, in 1928 it was proposed to be Ijesa Grammar School. However, in the same 1928 Mr J.S. Oginni suggested the name “Ilesa Grammar School” and this was accepted. The choice of “Grammar” school was to distinguish the school from the existing schools at the time. Ondo had Ondo Boys High School while Ile-Ife was to have a College that would be called Oduduwa College. It is worthy of note that between 1965 and 1978 there was an interregnum when the school was called “Ijesa Comprehensive High School”.
22 July, 1928
The choice of the present site was influenced by proximity to the first major street passing through Ilesa in the 16th century. The size of land was to accommodate appreciable number of classroom blocks, laboratories, library, sports facilities, agricultural farms, orchards, boarding facilities and staff quarters. Egbe Atuluse held a meeting on Sunday 22 July, 1928 and the building plan of the school was approved by members.
18 January, 1934
After lots of things were put in place, an entrance examination was conducted on the 18th of January, 1934. Twenty-one boys were admitted into the new school. Among them were Emmanuel Asaolu (later chenged to Fafowora), Ezekiel Aofolajuwonlo, Elder John Aoko, Enoch Ayeni, Gabriel Aluko-Oluokun, Habibu Karimu, Samuel Doherty, Adolphous Doherty and Eric Mabayoje. The boys were aged between 18-26 yrs and were from diverse backgrounds. Because of the diversity in age, academic backgrounds and their experience, the boys were categorized into 3 classes being class one (3), class two (8) and class three (10). Another entrance examination was conducted on Thursday February 1, 1934 and additional thirteen students were offered admission although not all thirteen eventually registered.
5th February, 1934
On Monday 5th February 1934 in Ilesa, In the years when Sir Donald Charles Cameron was the Governor of Colonial Nigeria, Captain J. A. Mackenzie the District Officer for Ife/Ilesa, and Oba Oduyomade Aromolaran I the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland; history was made at a special colourful event presided over by the District Officer himself – Ilesa Grammar School was formally birthed bringing into reality, the first secondary school (premier grammar school) in Ijesaland and second in present day (2019) State of Osun. Since the formal opening took place on Monday February 5, 1934 this has always been marked as Founder’s Day till date. After resumption, the boys were told during orientation on how to behave and comport themselves in and outside the school as ‘Grammarians’
Copyright, 2025
ILEGRAMS 88/93 SET
Where the past meets the present - and memories last forever.
About Ilegrams Class of 88/93
In January 1988, two hundred and eight (208) Junior Secondary School kids continued their life journey at the then prestigious Ilesa Grammar School (popularly known as Ilegrams) in the old Oyo State of Nigeria. At various points between 1988 and 1992, there were departures from the school and arrivals to the school by members of this special set, which is why we’re referred to as 88/93 set. Most of the then kids had no idea what lay ahead of them in life but whatever they’ve become today has a lot to do with their training at this school.
The quality of education in today’s public schools in Nigeria is so different from what we benefited from, so one of our primary objectives is to continually touch the lives of as many current students as possible in a positive way.
News and Events
Finance Unlocked: Making Your Money Work Overtime
Join us for an illuminating session with the CEO of Firstallon Limited, where you’ll gain direct insights into a diverse set of financial products.
See more
Core Values
At the heart of our alumni community are the values that guide how we connect, support, and grow together. We proudly uphold the principles of H.E.R.O. — a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.
Buy our Book
“The Ilegrams 42” is more than a book — it is a living, breathing tapestry of stories, pain, triumph, and undying hope. Authored by 42 distinguished alumni of Ilesa Grammar School’s Class of 1993, this powerful collection of biographical essays captures the incredible journeys of a generation that came of age in the shadows of Nigeria’s economic and social upheavals.
These are not just stories — they are lived experiences.
From medicine to engineering, from law to logistics, these alumni have not only shaped their own futures but have also become shining examples of what it means to persevere, rebuild, and overcome. Each narrative is a capsule of transformation — showing how individuals carved out success against mighty odds, often with faith as their only anchor.
And yet, this book is not just about personal victories. It is also a collective tribute — a heartfelt remembrance of seven classmates whose journeys were cut short by the cold hands of fate. Their memory breathes through these pages, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community.
Read the FOREWORD by Professor Ebenezer Obadare, Senior Fellow for Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Washington DC., United States of America
Our Responsibility
In addition to developing current students and making the school more conducive for learning, we also give back to residents of the Ilesa community through various charitable initiatives
Current Students
We positively impact the lives of current students through mentorship programs and award of scholarships. These disadvantaged kids learn under very difficult circumstances so we believe that our best efforts, however little they are, will undoubtedly make them better whilst giving them a chance in life.
Our School
We long to see the Ilegrams of old. The “Empire” Building, Lahanmi Memorial Library, Science laboratories, Fine Art studio, and sporting facilities - to mention but a few - are a shadow of what they used to be. This school gave us a lot therefore we shall not fold our arms and watch it decay. With the right resources, we can restore the glory and pride of the school. This is exactly what we plan on doing.
The Community
Through carefully thought out charitable initiatives such as “Ilesa secret santa” and “operation free a patient”, we’ve been able to positively impact the lives of many families with or without ties to Ilesa Grammar school. These individuals benefit simply because they belong to the same community that produced us.
About Ilegrams
Ilesa Grammar School is a co-educational grammar school located in ilesa Osun State Nigeria. It was founded in February 5, 1934 by Egbe Atunluse Ijesa (i.e. Ijesa Improvement Society). The school Originally started informally at its temporary site V5A Igbaye street Ilesa in the western part of Nigeria on Monday 29th January 1934, after a competitive entrance examination held on 18th January 1934.
The school is presently owned and run by the government of Osun state. In addition to that, significant contribution to its development comes from its Alumni association. This is a longstanding tradition. Presently, the school conducts both West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council of Nigeria (NECO).
Historical Perspective
The school was founded by “Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa” which literally means “Ijesa Improvement Society”. Olaleye Falore remarked in his book: The Story and Memoirs of Ilesa Grammar School, “The society was made up of youths who believed that the future of the Ijesaman and of the totality of Ijesaland’s development rested on solid educational foundation. Paradoxically, these honourable and public-spirited gentlemen themselves did not have the benefit of Western education. They saw to the future educational opportunities. The Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa played a gigantic role in bringing about sporadic changes in terms of civilisation, growth, advancement, improvement and progress of Ijesaland and its people”,
9th April, 1924
On 9th April, 1924 during one of her meetings, a member in person of Dr Oguntola Sapara moved a motion that “emphasis should now be laid on educational matters concerning Ijesa”.
This motion was accepted and there was a dream to originate a spring from which will flow a fountain of knowledge which has survived for nearly a century. Dr Ogutola Sapara was the first Ijesa man and ninth Nigerian to qualify as a medical doctor in 1895. The crave for post primary education by Egbe Atunluse ile Ijesa could be traced back to the establishment of primary schools by the missionaries. Notable among such primary schools are St John’s Primary School, Iloro (1888); Methodist Primary School, Otapete (1892).
25th July, 1924
On Friday 25th July, 1924, the Egbe Atuluse agreed in principle to name the proposed school as “Owa’s National Industrial School”. After several consultations and afterthought, in 1928 it was proposed to be Ijesa Grammar School. However, in the same 1928 Mr J.S. Oginni suggested the name “Ilesa Grammar School” and this was accepted. The choice of “Grammar” school was to distinguish the school from the existing schools at the time. Ondo had Ondo Boys High School while Ile-Ife was to have a College that would be called Oduduwa College. It is worthy of note that between 1965 and 1978 there was an interregnum when the school was called “Ijesa Comprehensive High School”.
22 July, 1928
The choice of the present site was influenced by proximity to the first major street passing through Ilesa in the 16th century. The size of land was to accommodate appreciable number of classroom blocks, laboratories, library, sports facilities, agricultural farms, orchards, boarding facilities and staff quarters. Egbe Atuluse held a meeting on Sunday 22 July, 1928 and the building plan of the school was approved by members.
18 January, 1934
After lots of things were put in place, an entrance examination was conducted on the 18th of January, 1934. Twenty-one boys were admitted into the new school. Among them were Emmanuel Asaolu (later chenged to Fafowora), Ezekiel Aofolajuwonlo, Elder John Aoko, Enoch Ayeni, Gabriel Aluko-Oluokun, Habibu Karimu, Samuel Doherty, Adolphous Doherty and Eric Mabayoje. The boys were aged between 18-26 yrs and were from diverse backgrounds. Because of the diversity in age, academic backgrounds and their experience, the boys were categorized into 3 classes being class one (3), class two (8) and class three (10). Another entrance examination was conducted on Thursday February 1, 1934 and additional thirteen students were offered admission although not all thirteen eventually registered.
5th February, 1934
On Monday 5th February 1934 in Ilesa, In the years when Sir Donald Charles Cameron was the Governor of Colonial Nigeria, Captain J. A. Mackenzie the District Officer for Ife/Ilesa, and Oba Oduyomade Aromolaran I the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland; history was made at a special colourful event presided over by the District Officer himself – Ilesa Grammar School was formally birthed bringing into reality, the first secondary school (premier grammar school) in Ijesaland and second in present day (2019) State of Osun. Since the formal opening took place on Monday February 5, 1934 this has always been marked as Founder’s Day till date. After resumption, the boys were told during orientation on how to behave and comport themselves in and outside the school as ‘Grammarians’