Some associations exist simply to preserve memories.
Others choose to build a future.
At the Edo College Old Boys Association (ECOBA), our responsibility goes beyond reconnecting classmates or celebrating shared history. ECOBA is an institution, one with a legacy to preserve, a community to strengthen, and a future to intentionally shape.
Every enduring institution reaches moments where it must pause, reflect, evaluate its direction and make deliberate decisions about the years ahead. Growth is never accidental. It is the product of vision, planning and collective commitment.
It was with this understanding that 32 distinguished alumni gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, from 21st–29th March, 2026, for the ECOBA National Retreat, held at the Four Points by Sheraton & Marriott Hotel, Kigali.
Guided by the theme:
Reflection. Renewal. Strategic Action.
The retreat provided an opportunity for intensive deliberations focused on developing ECOBA’s 10-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2035), a roadmap designed to position the Association for greater impact while strengthening the legacy of Edo College for generations to come.
Across several days of robust conversations, collaborative workshops and strategic planning sessions, participants examined the Association’s present realities, future aspirations and the structures required to translate vision into measurable action.
One clear direction emerged from the retreat, a Dual Outcome Strategy that will guide ECOBA’s work over the next decade:
● Renewal of Edo College
● Empowerment of Alumni
Recognising that strategy only becomes meaningful through execution, the retreat also established eight strategic implementation portfolios, each led by accomplished alumni who will provide leadership, coordinate execution and ensure accountability across their respective focus areas.
The appointed champions are:
● Infrastructure Renewal — John Ikhanoba
● Improved Teaching & Learning — Chris Osarumwense
● Governance System — Uyi Akpata
● Career & Business Platform — Uyi Akpata
● Networking & Mentorship — Jude Eluemunor & Collins Edebiri
● Resource Mobilisation — Bob Osaghae
● Social Mobilisation — Akinwale Akinbobola
● Branding — Greg Ogbeifun
To further strengthen implementation across all portfolios, Tony Nwaochie was appointed as Accountability Champion, providing oversight, tracking progress across initiatives and supporting the enforcement of agreed standards, timelines and performance expectations.
Together, these champions form the engine that will drive ECOBA’s long-term vision, ensuring that the conversations held in Kigali translate into measurable progress and lasting impact.
The Kigali Strategic Planning Retreat was more than a gathering. It marked an important milestone in ECOBA’s continuing journey, a deliberate commitment to honour our heritage while building a stronger future for both our alma mater and every Ecobite.
The work has begun.
The future is being built.
And every ECOBITE has a role to play.
Join us as we continue to renew Edo College, empower alumni and shape the next chapter of the ECOBA story. Whether through mentorship, volunteering, professional expertise, partnerships or advocacy, every ECOBITE has a place in building the future. Identify. Join. Participate. Together, we will build a legacy that endures.
Up EC!