1982 Billiri Graduates Reconnect After Decades, Pledge Community Support

BY ABUBAKAR RABILU , GOMBE

The Billiri Old Students Association (BILOSA), comprising the Class of 1982 from Government Secondary School Billiri in Gombe State, has reunited for the first time in 43 years, rekindling memories and fostering a renewed sense of community.

The historic gathering was held at the Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe, with Malam Abubakar Abdullahi, the association’s Chairman, applauding the impressive turnout of members.

Reflecting on the journey to this reunion, Malam Abdullahi recounted how he personally reached out to former classmates and created a WhatsApp group to reconnect them.

His efforts led to his election as Chairman, a position he vowed to use to strengthen the association and support its members.

“This initiative was born out of a desire to reunite after decades apart. My role as Chairman motivates me to ensure regular meetings and to create a support system for our members, especially those who are retired or in need,” Abdullahi stated.

He highlighted the group’s initial ambition to support their alma mater but explained that the school’s conversion to Federal Government College Billiri, following the creation of Gombe State, presented unforeseen challenges.

Despite this, the association resolved to extend their impact to the Billiri community.

“Although direct contributions to the school are complicated, we remain committed to giving back to the community that shaped us during our formative years,” he said.

The reunion was attended by 94 of the original 143 graduates, with some absent due to health issues or having passed away.

The gathering provided a platform for members to reconnect, share memories, and honor the legacy of their shared educational journey.

Participants, including notable members such as Muhammad Ibrahim Madakin Kwami, Mr. Jorom Moses, and Garba Umar Wade, expressed their joy at reuniting after over four decades. They commended Malam Abdullahi for his dedication, describing his efforts as instrumental in making the event a reality.

“This reunion feels like a dream come true. It has brought back the spirit of our school days, and we owe this success to Malam Abdullahi’s unwavering commitment,” they remarked.

The association resolved to hold regular meetings, provide support to members in need, and assist the families of deceased classmates.

They also called on other graduates who missed the maiden reunion to join future gatherings, emphasizing the importance of unity and mutual support.

The event concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold the spirit of community and extend their shared values beyond their circle to the Billiri community.