XJAYS International reviewed strategic investments, honoured outstanding members, celebrated Marist heritage and unveiled future plans during its 2026 AGM and Reunion in Port Harcourt.
XJAYS International Marks One Year of Transformational Leadership at Port Harcourt AGM
Marist Brothers’ Juniorate Old Boys Association, XJAYS International, convened its 2026 Annual General Meeting and Reunion in Port Harcourt on June 6, bringing together members from various chapters across Nigeria and in the diaspora for a gathering defined by faith, fraternity, institutional reflection and strategic planning. Held under the theme, “XJAYS Comradeship 2026,” the event also marked one year in office of the current International President, Ikenna Aghaji, whose administration presented its stewardship report alongside updates on investments, chapter development and member engagement initiatives.
The reunion, which traditionally coincides with the Feast Day of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers’ of the Schools, commenced with a Holy Mass and concluded on Sunday morning with a Thanksgiving Mass, reflecting the enduring spiritual foundation of the association and the values upon which it continues to thrive.
Delegates were formally welcomed by the Vice President of the XJAYS Port Harcourt Chapter, who expressed appreciation to members for honouring the invitation to the Garden City and reaffirmed the chapter’s commitment to supporting the objectives of XJAYS International while ensuring the successful hosting of the 2026 reunion activities.
Adding a special touch to the occasion was the celebration of the birthday of the Pioneer Emeritus President, Innocent Ikechukwu Odo, whose birthday coincided with the Feast Day of Saint Marcellin Champagnat. Members described the coincidence as a fitting reminder of the association’s origins and the pioneering efforts that helped establish what has become one of the most vibrant networks of Marist alumni.
One of the most anticipated side attractions of the reunion was a novelty football match between the older generation of XJAYS members, comprising alumni from the Class of 2004 and earlier, and the younger generation made up of alumni from 2005 to 2023. The encounter showcased the spirit of comradeship that formed the central theme of the reunion. Despite energetic performances from both teams and enthusiastic support from spectators, the match ended in a goalless draw, with participants celebrating the bond of brotherhood over the final score.
One Year in Office: Progress Through Planning and Innovation
Presenting his one-year stewardship report, International President Ikenna Aghaji described the period as one characterised by deliberate planning, innovation and a commitment to strengthening the institutional foundations of XJAYS International.
“My brothers, just like yesterday, we are already one year in office. It has been a memorable year filled with good news and achievements to the glory of God,” Aghaji said.
According to him, one of the administration’s earliest initiatives was the introduction of a monthly planning framework known as Proposed Activities for XJAYS International Exco for the Month. Published at the beginning of every month, the initiative enables members to remain informed about planned activities while encouraging wider participation in the affairs of the association.
The administration also introduced a Monthly XJAYS Newsletter designed to document activities, preserve institutional memory and strengthen communication across chapters. Through written reports and photographs, the publication has become an important archive of organisational activities.
Another innovation is the Monthly Zoom Knowledge Series, which provides members with opportunities to learn from professionals and industry experts on topics ranging from business and entrepreneurship to health, personal development and emerging economic opportunities.
Together, these initiatives have strengthened communication, improved transparency and enhanced member engagement across the association.
Real Estate and Agriculture Drive Financial Sustainability
A major highlight of the AGM was the presentation of the association’s growing investment portfolio, reflecting a deliberate effort to build long-term financial sustainability.
“Our major target for this dispensation is to make XJAYS International financially independent,” Aghaji stated.
That vision, he explained, informed the acquisition of the association’s first real estate asset, the XJAYS House in Abuja. Located at Army Scheme II, Kurudu, the property consists of a three-bedroom bungalow situated on a 500-square-metre parcel of land.
The property was commissioned by the Marist Provincial, Brother Mark Omede, in the presence of past presidents, Board of Trustees members, chapter leaders and other stakeholders.
According to the President, the property has already begun generating returns.
The building was leased for ₦2.6 million and is currently occupied by tenants, while another rental cycle is expected before the end of 2026.
The AGM also received updates on the association’s agricultural investment under LOCHI Farms. Through the initiative, XJAYS International invested ₦2.25 million in the purchase of five young cattle expected to mature for sale by December 2026.
Aghaji disclosed that the investment is projected to generate ₦3.5 million, yielding an estimated profit of ₦1.25 million.
For many alumni associations, sustainability remains a challenge due to dependence on annual dues and voluntary contributions. Increasingly, organisations are embracing investment-driven models to secure stable income streams and support long-term programmes. The investments presented in Port Harcourt suggest that XJAYS International is positioning itself within that emerging trend.
Strengthening Chapters and Deepening Participation
Beyond investments, the administration highlighted efforts aimed at strengthening chapter activities and broadening participation across the organisation.
One of the achievements reported at the AGM was the successful revival of the Umuahia Chapter after two years of inactivity.
Reflecting on his engagements with members, Aghaji noted that the chapter has returned to active participation and recently conducted elections for the first time in ten years.
The President also acknowledged the support provided by the Port Harcourt Chapter in hosting the reunion.
“Port Harcourt Chapter, during my visit, took the bills for the hall, welcome and departure parties for the June 2026 reunion. This is the first time a host chapter is taking up such heavy expenditure. God bless Port Harcourt Chapter,” he said.
The development was widely viewed by members as a demonstration of commitment and collective ownership of the association’s activities.
Recognising Excellence and Service
A significant feature of the AGM was the recognition of members whose dedication contributed to the progress of the organisation.
Two officials were honoured for their diligence and commitment to service.
The International Secretary, Dr. Chris Aghalibe, received recognition for his contributions to the administration and coordination of XJAYS International activities.
Similarly, the Vice President of the Abuja Chapter was honoured for outstanding commitment to the goals and programmes of the association.
The recognition reflected an appreciation for volunteer leadership and the often unseen efforts that sustain organisations such as XJAYS International.
Looking Ahead: Enugu and Aba Take Centre Stage
The AGM also focused on the future, with members approving key decisions aimed at sustaining momentum.
Enugu Chapter was selected to host the 2027 XJAYS International Reunion, continuing the tradition of rotating host responsibilities among chapters.
Members also approved Aba Chapter as host of the second XJAYS Business Summit scheduled for November 2027.
The summit is expected to provide another platform for networking, investment discussions, entrepreneurship and professional collaboration among members.
These decisions reaffirm the association’s commitment to expanding opportunities for engagement while strengthening connections across chapters.
Brotherhood, Faith and a Shared Vision for the Future
In his closing remarks, Aghaji expressed appreciation to members, past leaders, chapter executives, trustees and stakeholders for their support throughout the first year of his administration.
He emphasised that the achievements recorded thus far were products of collective effort and encouraged members to remain committed to the association’s vision and future initiatives.
As XJAYS International enters the second year of the current administration, the organisation appears increasingly focused on building an enduring legacy rooted in faith, fraternity and financial sustainability. The investments unveiled in Port Harcourt, the revival of dormant chapters, the expansion of knowledge-sharing initiatives and the growing culture of institutional documentation all point to an association seeking to strengthen its foundations while preparing for the future.
While the first year of Ikenna Aghaji’s tenure has been defined by ambitious initiatives and measurable milestones, the broader significance lies in the effort to reposition XJAYS International beyond the traditional role of an alumni association. Through strategic investments, stronger member engagement and a renewed emphasis on accountability and long-term planning, the organisation is gradually evolving into a platform for lifelong networking, economic empowerment and collective impact.
Ultimately, the 2026 Port Harcourt Reunion was more than an annual gathering of old schoolmates. It was a celebration of Marist heritage, a reaffirmation of brotherhood and a demonstration of what can be achieved when shared values are matched by purposeful leadership and collective commitment.
Beginning with the Holy Mass in honour of Saint Marcellin Champagnat and concluding with a Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday morning, the reunion reflected the enduring ideals upon which the Marist Brothers’ of the Schools were founded. For the men of XJAYS International, those ideals continue to serve as both a compass and a bond, connecting generations of alumni in a common pursuit of service, excellence and fraternity.
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