Papa Ibafo, Ogun State
Renowned Journalist and retired Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Peter Ajayi Dada, has delivered a stirring advisory to the pioneer graduating class of Topclass Comprehensive College, urging students to approach life after secondary school with wisdom, discipline, and purpose.
Addressing the students, parents, staff, and invited guests at the school’s maiden graduation ceremony, Dada congratulated the Class of 2025, hailing their achievement as a foundation for future greatness.
He praised the Proprietor, Mr. Anthony Ojo, his wife, teachers, and parents for their collective efforts in nurturing the students.
In a heartfelt address titled “Life After Secondary School: What Next?”, Dada reminded the students that graduation marked the end of one phase and the beginning of a more challenging journey.
“You are now stepping into the larger society, where humility, honesty, perseverance, and sacrifice must become your daily compass,” he said.
He advised students not to view their teachers’ discipline as hostility, but as critical guidance necessary to shape their lives.
“They insisted you do the right thing because experience is the best teacher. Now, it is time to appreciate them for helping mould you into future leaders,” he noted.
Dada encouraged the graduates to remain connected to one another, suggesting the creation of a WhatsApp group to track academic and vocational progress.
He also urged them to keep God at the center of their plans, emphasizing prayer, patience, and strategic ambition.
“Don’t chase quick success. Be steady, and let your school’s motto, Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It, guide you in all your endeavours,” he said.
The Veteran Journalists advised students to take advantage of time by pursuing meaningful skills while awaiting admission into tertiary institutions.
He listed trades such as fashion designing, event planning, tiling, and auto mechanics as worthy ventures that offer dignity and income.
For those aspiring to enter higher institutions, he warned of the increasing competition and discouraged overreliance on “miracle centers.”
He advised students unable to secure immediate admission to consider pre-degree programs and avoid idleness that may lead to bad influences.
To female graduates, Dada gave a stern caution against falling prey to “sugar-coated” advances and toxic relationships. “Stay focused. Avoid unwanted pregnancies. Protect your future,” he said.
He also charged all graduates to avoid cultism, cybercrime, drugs, and immoral conduct often promoted on social media.
“Use the digital world to build your future, not destroy it,” he warned, stressing that shortcuts to success often lead to destruction.
Turning his attention to parents, Dada applauded their sacrifices but urged them not to abandon their responsibility now that their children had finished secondary school.
“Be more involved in mentoring your children. Your investment in their lives continues,” he said.
The speech also acknowledged the dedication of teachers, urging them to forgive past student misconduct.
“May the seeds you planted in these young minds yield bountiful fruits,” he prayed.
Finally, Dada commended the school’s proprietor for his commitment to education, describing the graduation ceremony as the result of “years of resilience and loyalty.”
He prayed for continued growth and God’s blessings on the institution, staff, students, and the entire community.
The event was a milestone in the history of Topclass Comprehensive College, marking the beginning of a legacy expected to blossom in the years ahead.
