The Principal of Igbobi College, Ven. Joseph Oyewale Adediji, has said students’ academic performance is not the only yardstick for measuring their success but rather, “they should add to their brilliance moral rectitude”
He made the submission at the school’s Academic and Behavioral Awards ceremony, held on May 20, 2026, at Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos.
The address
In a brief opening address, Ven. Adediji stated that the purpose of the gathering was not just to celebrate brilliant minds, but to honor the character, resilience, and positive attitudes that define true leaders.
He said, “When we look at academic success, we see the results of late nights, hard work, and intellectual curiosity. But academic brilliance only tells half the story. The true magic happens when that intelligence is paired with strong behavioral values—namely integrity, empathy, respect, and perseverance. There is an adage that says, ‘Show me your friend and I will tell you who you are.’ This means that excellence encompasses your impact on those around you.”
Addressing the awardees, he added, “You are receiving these honors because you show up for yourselves and for your peers. You demonstrate kindness when it isn’t easy. You exhibit focus when distractions are high. You support one another in the classroom, uplift your school community, and prove that how you treat others is as important as what you score on a test.”
He also thanked parents, guardians, and teachers for their efforts in ensuring the students turned out well. “These young people did not reach this milestone alone. Your patience, encouragement, and daily support have provided the foundation upon which they stand,” he said.
He urged the students to continue making meaningful progress, noting that “knowledge is a powerful tool, but your character is the compass that helps you navigate the path. Continue to lead by example, stay curious, focused, and godly, and always treat others with respect.”
Interestingly, while congratulating the awardees, the principal also took time out to congratulate the Arsenal football team and its fans for winning the Premier League after a 22-year wait.
Attendance
The event was well-attended by staff, students, friends of the College, and parents of the awardees. It was organized to encourage both moral and academic excellence among the students.
Igbobi College was founded on February 2, 1932, as a boys-only school.