By Nna Anulumadu
The All Hallows Seminary Old Boys Association (AHOBA) held its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and National Convention to chart a course for the future as All Hallows Seminary, Onitsha celebrates its centennial anniversary.
The AGM, themed “All Hallows Seminary at 100: Strengthening Our Brotherhood and Human Capacity Development Opportunities in Nigeria,” took place at the All Hallows Seminary Hall.
AHOBA President General, Nze Sullivan Akachukwu Nwamkpo, expressed delight at the large turnout, noting that attendance exceeded last year’s convention. He estimated the association’s membership at over 4,000, comprising professionals from various fields.
In his keynote address, Hon. Chris Nonyelum (JIMBAZZ) described All Hallows Seminary’s 100-year existence as a monumental success, marked by sustainable growth, progress, and development. He highlighted the seminary’s heritage of academic excellence and commitment to the Catholic Church’s ideals.
Nonyelum mentioned notable Nigerians who attended All Hallows Seminary, including: Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (1943-1944), Professor Chinua Achebe (1950-1951), Professor Chike Obi (1951-1955),Pius Okigbo (1952-1956), Innocent Chukwuma (1967-1973), ABC Orjiako (1964-1970),Dr. Alex Ekwueme (1952-1955), Justice Chukwudifu Oputa (1945-1951).
He advised young seminarians that, regardless of their future paths, their current formation would cultivate spiritual and moral clarity, equipping them with self-discipline to navigate life’s complexities.
Former AHOBA President General, Professor Fidelis Okafor, recalled the seminary’s Golden Jubilee celebration in 2002 and emphasized the importance of remembering the association’s history.
Nze Akachukwu Nwamkpo proposed establishing the AHOBA Unit Foundation to oversee a ₦500 million endowment fund. The majority of members supported the idea, with Professor Emejulu Obiajulu heading the committee to explore its feasibility.
The meeting’s highlights included: Nomination of a constitution review Committee, entertainment, plans to complete the jubilee foundation house, laid by Cardinal Francis Arinze in 2002.
