Every year on June 6, something special happens in the CMS Grammar School family.
Old Grammarians return to reconnect with their roots. Current students get an opportunity to witness the rich heritage of the institution they belong to. Teachers, alumni, friends, and well-wishers gather to celebrate not just a school, but a legacy that has endured for generations.
This year’s celebration is particularly significant as CMS Grammar School marks its 167th Founders’ Day Anniversary, a remarkable milestone for one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected educational institutions.
The annual tradition begins with a thanksgiving service, where students, staff, alumni, and guests gather to give thanks for the school’s history, achievements, and continued impact on society. For many Old Grammarians, the church service is more than a programme item. It is a moment of reflection. A moment to remember classmates, teachers, mentors, and the values that helped shape their lives.
After the thanksgiving service comes another aspect of the celebration that many attendees eagerly anticipate: the Founders’ Day Luncheon.
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This year’s luncheon will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the BOS Hall, LTV Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja. As always, it promises an afternoon filled with fellowship, music, networking, laughter, delicious food, and the opportunity to reconnect with fellow Grammarians across different generations.
One of the most beautiful things about Founders’ Day is how it brings together people separated by decades but united by a common identity.
A student who graduated fifty years ago can sit beside a recent graduate and immediately find common ground. The school memories may differ, but the spirit remains the same.
As an Old Grammarian, Founders’ Day always brings back fond memories.
During my years as a student, I attended several Founders’ Day celebrations, but one experience remains unforgettable.
It was the year the Founders’ Day Dinner was held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos.
At the time, attending an event at MUSON Centre felt like stepping into another world. Everything seemed elegant and sophisticated. The atmosphere was electric. Distinguished Old Grammarians filled the hall, conversations flowed freely, and there was a sense that everyone present belonged to something bigger than themselves.
What made the evening particularly memorable was that it was my first experience at a buffet dinner.
Today, buffet service may appear ordinary, but for a young student at the time, it was a completely new experience. The beautifully arranged meals, the variety of dishes, and the freedom to choose what to eat made the evening feel special.
Another student and I attended the event in our school uniforms, and to our surprise, many of the Old Grammarians were genuinely delighted to see us there.
167 Founder’s Day Anniversary: CMS Grammar School Holds Lecture, Thanksgiving
We were welcomed warmly and encouraged throughout the evening. Looking back now, I understand why. We represented the future of the institution they loved. Seeing students participate in such an event reminded them that the CMS Grammar School tradition would continue long after their own generation.
The excitement of the evening was further heightened by the presence of Ali Baba, Nigeria’s renowned comedian, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. His humour kept the audience entertained and created moments of laughter that remain memorable years later.
By the time the event ended and I eventually arrived home around 11 p.m., I was tired but incredibly happy.
It was one of those experiences that stay with you long after the event has ended.
For many Grammarians, this is exactly what Founders’ Day represents.
It is not merely a date on the calendar.
It is a celebration of excellence.
It is a celebration of friendships that have survived the passage of time.
It is a celebration of faith, character, leadership, and service.
Most importantly, it is a reminder that while generations may change, the bond of being a Grammarian remains strong.
As CMS Grammar School celebrates its 167th Founders’ Day, many Old Grammarians will once again gather to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the institution that helped shape their lives.
And for current students attending for the first time, it may become one of those memories they will still be talking about many years from now.
Happy Founders’ Day to all Grammarians.
Up School! Up Boys!
