By Ismail Umar, Sokoto
The Federal Government College (FGC), Sokoto, has marked its 60th anniversary in grand style, and laid foundation for the construction of of legacy project for the school.
In his address shortly after foundation laying for the legacy project, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), described FGC Sokoto as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s strength in diversity, noting that Unity Schools remain one of the country’s most effective tools for national integration.
He explained that when young Nigerians from different backgrounds live and learn together, they begin to look beyond ethnic and religious differences and develop a shared sense of national identity anchored on cooperation, discipline and service.
The Defence Minister added that the values of friendship, sacrifice and patriotism instilled in Unity Schools like FGC Sokoto have continued to shape leaders capable of responding to national challenges with understanding and unity of purpose.
General Musa commended the hostel renovations, noting that improved accommodation plays a critical role in effective learning, discipline and character development in boarding schools.
In her remarks, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad Sa’id, explained that the projects are designed to complement government efforts by improving infrastructure and creating a more conducive learning environment for students.
She said the legacy initiatives include the construction of additional classrooms, support facilities and improvements to boarding infrastructure aimed at easing pressure on existing facilities and enhancing academic performance.
Also speaking, the former Governor of Cross River State, Mr Donald Duke, also praised the college for sustaining its founding ideals over the past 60 years, describing the institution as a quiet but powerful force in Nigeria’s nation building process.
According to him, FGC Sokoto has succeeded where many policies struggle, by naturally bringing Nigerians together and teaching them how to live, work and succeed as one people.
Duke urged current students to recognize the rare privilege of studying in a Unity School, stressing that the friendships formed within such institutions often outlast political, ethnic and regional divisions.
He encouraged them to uphold the values of excellence, character and integrity that have defined the FGC tradition for generations.
Donald Duke also applauded the alumni for taking ownership of the institution’s future, describing their intervention as a true demonstration of gratitude and long term commitment to education.
The dignitaries later embarked on an inspection tour of newly renovated hostel blocks, where they expressed satisfaction with the improved accommodation standards and the positive impact on student welfare.
The school was established in 1966 as a visionary initiative of the First Republic and implemented under the administration of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, FGC Sokoto was founded to bring young Nigerians from diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds together under one roof in order to foster mutual understanding and shared national values.
Six decades later, the college has remained faithful to this founding mandate, producing generations of leaders and professionals who have distinguished themselves in public service, the military, academia, business and diplomacy across the country.
The diamond jubilee celebration attracted a large convergence of old boys and girls, former principals, retired teachers and education stakeholders from across the federation, reflecting the institution’s wide national footprint and enduring relevance.
Prominent among the dignitaries at the event were former Governor of Cross River State, Mr Donald Duke, and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), alongside former ministers, senior military officers, professors, captains of industry, traditional rulers, permanent secretaries and political leaders from different parts of Nigeria.
Several old boys and girls who spoke during the reunion session recalled how their years at FGC Sokoto shaped their worldview, strengthened their sense of discipline and prepared them for leadership roles in different sectors of national life.
The anniversary celebration featured goodwill messages, cultural performances, award presentations to distinguished alumni and retired staff, as well as interactive reunion sessions that rekindled memories of shared classrooms, hostels, sports fields and inter-house competitions.
As the college enters its seventh decade, stakeholders called for sustained investment in infrastructure, teacher development and curriculum innovation to ensure FGC Sokoto remains competitive and relevant in an increasingly global education environment.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment by the old boys and girls to strengthen alumni engagement, support ongoing development initiatives and preserve the institution’s legacy as a beacon of unity, discipline and national service.
Congratulations my alma mater