Twelve Years of Light: Honoring a Legacy of Integrity

As we mark GAMSU’s 12th anniversary and celebrate the birth of our founder, Gamaliel Onosode, I find myself caught between memory and mission. The weight of his absence is still palpable, but so too is the luminous force of his legacy that has guided us through triumphs, trials, and transformations. Twelve years ago, I sat across from Mr. Onosode in his Lagos office, a young COO outlining plans for a fledgling foundation. He laid out the mission and was unequivocal in highlighting that, to him, education is not charity but justice. Those words became our North Star.

With Gamaliel Onosode in 2013

Working with Mr. Onosode was a masterclass in principled leadership. He wore his integrity like a second skin. He would never agree to terms that conflicted with our values. It was clear that we were not just here to build schools but to build character.

Mr. Onosode’s fingerprints are everywhere: in the exceptional academic prowess of our award recipients, the many who owe their successes to his lifestyle and principles, and the quiet dignity of our team over the past twelve years.

The greatest lesson he taught me? Legacy is not a monument—it is movement. As we honor him, we recommit to the pillars of integrity that drive our commitment to quality education in Nigeria. We want under-privileged people to have access to the best education possible. We will not settle for less, and we will drive our mission with the dedication that our Founder epitomised.

Mr. Onosode, we have not merely preserved your vision. We have multiplied it. Every GAMSU beneficiary is your living legacy.

To our GAMSU family: Let us remember that we do not walk alone. We have a bastion of integrity who is more than a memory to us. His work continues to be a guiding light for us.

Legacy is not a monument—it is movement.

Twelve years ago, he lit that torch. Today, it blazes brighter than ever. For the dreamer, the builder, the sage. For Mr. Integrity.

We will keep the light burning.