It was an atmosphere of joy and nostalgia on Saturday, October 18, 2025, as members of the 1978–1983 set of James Welch Grammar School, Emevor, gathered at their alma mater’s dining hall to honour one of their own, Omamuzo Erebe, following his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Erebe, who serves as the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Justice, was among the recently sworn-in Senior Advocates of Nigeria. He made history as the first civil servant in the state to be elevated to the coveted rank of SAN.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the 1978–1983 Set of the Old Boys Association and former Delta State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Edewor T. Omonemu, Esq., expressed immense pride and happiness on behalf of his classmates in celebrating the remarkable achievement of their colleague.
He described Erebe’s elevation as “a well-deserved recognition of years of commitment, diligence, and service to humanity.”
Omonemu noted that the attainment of the SAN rank represented not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the enduring values instilled by James Welch Grammar School. “Omamuzo’s achievement,” he said, “has brought honour not only to himself and his family but also to our alma mater, rekindling in us the spirit of excellence for which Welgrams stands.”
He recalled fond memories of their school days sitting on hard wooden desks, sharing dreams, and learning the virtues of hard work and divine grace. “Nobody told us then that life does not follow the rules of the classroom,” he said with a smile, “but we have come to learn that it is by God’s grace that we are still here.”
The former commissioner commended the teachers and mentors who laid the foundation for their success, noting that their sacrifices produced men and women who continue to make meaningful contributions to society.
He urged younger alumni to draw inspiration from Erebe’s story and strive for excellence with resilience, vision, and faith.
Omonemu concluded by welcoming all guests and dignitaries, expressing gratitude for their presence, and reaffirming the Old Boys’ pride in their distinguished classmate. “Congratulations once again, our learned silk,” he said. “We are indeed proud of you.”
In his remarks, National President of the James Welch Grammar School Old Boys Association, Dr. Phillip Esavwede, expressed gratitude for the honour done to the school by the honouree.
He described members of the distinguished 1978–1983 class as among the finest in the school’s history, lauding their humility and faith-driven character, which reflect both respect for tradition and moral uprightness.
Dr. Esavwede emphasized the significance of the gathering, appreciating what he called the “Spirit of Love” that continues to unite the alumni community, and concluded on a hopeful and inclusive note.
Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Nelson Ogba, noted that with Nigeria’s population of about 230 to 250 million people, only about 20 to 30 individuals each year attain such a rare and distinguished professional recognition.
He added that fewer than 2,000 legal practitioners nationwide have ever been conferred with the rank of SAN, emphasizing that the honouree stands out as one of the finest products of James Welch Grammar School in its nearly 70 years of existence.
He further remarked that such success does not come by chance but through years of dedication and hard work.
Responding, Omamuzo Erebe, SAN, expressed deep gratitude to God for the fulfilment of a dream 18 years in the making and for divine healing after undergoing surgery last year. He thanked all who contributed to the realisation of his lifelong aspiration of becoming a learned silk.
Erebe pledged to establish an endowment fund for the best graduating students of James Welch Grammar School, “for as long as the Lord tarries.”
He said, “Having had the benefit of the best tutelage from the best secondary school in Nigeria, James Welch Grammar School, we will continue to reciprocate what we received from this great institution.”
Hon. Charles Emetulu, Member representing Ndokwa West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly and an alumnus of the school, reminisced about his days at James Welch and announced a ₦500,000 donation to the 1978–1983 Class Endowment Fund.
The ceremony, graced by Brig. Gen. Felix Edafioghor (rtd.) and other distinguished guests, was marked by heartfelt speeches, laughter, and shared memories, celebrating not just the success of one man but the enduring legacy of a school that continues to produce men of honour, excellence, and integrity.
