As part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of Methodist High School, Ilesa, former President of the school’s Old Students’ Association, OSAMETHSI, Engr. Dideolu Falobi, has reflected on nearly two decades of service, describing the journey as one defined by faith, unity, and legacy building.
Falobi, who served as National Coordinator from 2004 to 2006 and President from 2006 to 2022, recounted the association’s transformation from a platform of nostalgic engagement into a structured and impact-driven alumni body.
From Nostalgia to Measurable Impact
Founded on January 26, 1956 by the Methodist Mission, Methodist High School, Ilesa has long been regarded as more than an academic institution. According to Falobi, the school represents a training ground for character and discipline, values that guided the leadership of the Old Students’ Association during his tenure.
He noted that when the reform journey began in 2004, the association lacked extensive resources but possessed what he described as “faith, stubborn optimism, and a shared commitment to practical intervention.”
Over the course of 18 years, OSAMETHSI reportedly committed over ₦200 million to infrastructural and developmental projects within the school. These interventions include:
Construction of a modern security gate
Refurbishment of classrooms and laboratories
Upgrade of the Home Economics building
Improved water systems
Renovated school facilities and sporting courts
Student support initiatives and technology donations
Ongoing projects such as an E-Library and Astronomy Observatory
Falobi described the results as “visible transformation rather than abstract promises.”
The Team Behind the Transformation
He paid tribute to his key partners in leadership — Pastor Babatunde Ogunrekun, who served as Secretary, and Princess Tokunbo Adedapo, Financial Secretary/Treasurer — describing their collaboration as the stabilizing force behind the association’s progress.
“If leadership were a three-legged stool,” he noted, “accuracy in documentation, financial discipline, and visionary direction kept it standing.”
Falobi also acknowledged the early pioneers who helped establish what he called the “modern OSAMETHSI,” including academics, professionals, and benefactors who supported the association during its formative years.
Special appreciation was extended to institutions such as Kresta Laurel Limited, which hosted Lagos and National Chapter meetings since 2006; Mind Builders School; Methodist Girls Grammar School, Yaba; and Pram Media for their consistent support.
He further recognized prominent supporters including Michael Ade-Ojo of the ELIZADE Group, Gbenga Daniel, and Mr. Sunmola Bakare of TAF Group for their financial contributions during the school’s 50th and 60th anniversary celebrations.
Leadership, Introspection and Restraint
Reflecting on the complexities of leading a diverse alumni body, Falobi emphasized that mature leadership required introspection, restraint, and inclusivity.
He noted that managing expectations across branches and generations demanded patience, particularly during budget deliberations and project execution. According to him, the association’s leadership often had to function as engineers, fundraisers, negotiators, and motivators simultaneously.
He also expressed appreciation to successive Osun State governments, school principals, and teachers for their cooperation, especially during challenging periods such as the school’s reclassification phase.
A Legacy of Succession
One of the defining moments of his tenure, Falobi said, was ensuring a seamless leadership transition. He described the handover to the current administration led by Arc. Gbenga Akintola (popularly known as Kintor) as one of the association’s greatest achievements.
According to him, leadership must function as a relay rather than a monument, and he expressed confidence in the new executive team, whose initiatives are scheduled for commissioning during the 70th anniversary celebration.
Looking Ahead
As Methodist High School marks seven decades of existence, Falobi urged present and future OSAMETHSI members to prioritize character, service, and collective responsibility over titles and personal recognition.
He concluded that the association’s journey from 2004 to 2022 demonstrates that “when introspection meets collective action, transformation becomes inevitable.”
With anniversary celebrations underway, stakeholders say the visible transformation within the school stands as a testament to what coordinated alumni engagement can achieve.
The 70th anniversary events today, culminated in the commissioning of landmark projects and renewed commitments toward sustaining the institution’s legacy.
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