Mann Alli

70 ‘GBOSAS’ TO BABA DOUG

Those teenage years, and as we burst into our early 20s were phenomenal jolly times full of vibrancy and excitement of youth, with exuberance at its peak. These were our University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, years from about 1972 to 1978 for a number of us and in-between those years, my path crossed with that of enigmatic Oyibo buddy, Doug. They were fun-filled years during which we had opportunity to express ourselves and make merry. It was the time we got together to establish a unique club named Scorpio with the theme to blend together and bring to the fore, the playful elements in each other and keep trendy in the convivial campus atmosphere as well as to ‘catch the groove’ in our slang of yesteryears. The fun and the energy were truly boundless. And it’s indeed more memorable that this was with Anne Marie as a great force – a constant feature of those years at the University of Ibadan. Thanks to Anne Marie!

It’s simply incredible to see that the years have rolled on and our own Doug is now knocking on the 7th floor to join some of us there while we’re awaiting a few of our other buddies of old.

In all those Ibadan years, one couldn’t but notice the elevated mind and the deep-thinking attributes of Doug as he contributed to the planning of our different engagements – parties and pinics mostly. It’s no surprise to me that he climbed to the zenith of his academic endeavour and we all remain very proud of him for the feat.

I therefore heartily rejoice with my friend of close on fifty years as he marks his platinum. As the rhythms of the drumbeats of celebration infuse the atmosphere and the wine glasses clink in toast to the worthy occasion, my prayers for Doug is that God’s grace and blessings of length of days, joy peace and fulfilment round-about abound for him as he continues to age gracefully.


Mann Alli (Dr)