Lagos First Lady Urges Chrisland Graduates to Uphold Integrity, Character

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has urged graduating students of Chrisland Schools to uphold integrity, resilience and strong moral values as they prepare for the next phase of their lives, stressing that while academic certificates may create opportunities, it is character that sustains lasting success.

The First Lady, who was represented by Mrs. Mojisola Agbaje, wife of the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, gave the charge at the Chrisland Schools Limited 2026 Joint Valedictory Service and Prize-Giving Ceremony held at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Addressing parents, education stakeholders, teachers and members of the graduating Class of 2026, Dr. Sanwo-Olu described graduation as a significant milestone that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another filled with opportunities and greater responsibilities.

She congratulated the graduating students on their academic achievements, perseverance, discipline and resilience, noting that the qualities they had demonstrated would prepare them to become responsible leaders and positive contributors to society.

The First Lady also commended the Founder of Chrisland Schools, High Chief Dr. (Mrs.) W.A. Awosika, OON, the institution’s board, management, teachers, parents and support staff for their commitment to quality education and the moral development of young Nigerians.

Reflecting on the ceremony’s theme, “Anchored in Values… Launched for Greatness,” she said true greatness is built on enduring virtues such as integrity, honesty, humility, diligence, compassion, respect and service to humanity rather than material accomplishments.

“In a world where success is often measured by material achievements, this theme reminds us that true greatness is built on a solid foundation of integrity. Skills may open doors, but it is character that keeps those doors open,” she said.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu observed that rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change and increasing global competition are reshaping the future of work and leadership. She therefore encouraged the graduates to remain adaptable, embrace innovation, think creatively, collaborate effectively and maintain high ethical standards in all they do.

She reminded the students never to sacrifice integrity in pursuit of success, emphasising that while academic qualifications may introduce them to opportunities, their reputation would ultimately be defined by their character.

“Your certificates will introduce you, but your character will sustain your reputation,” she stated.

The First Lady expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for their sacrifices, prayers and investments in the lives of their children, assuring them that their efforts would continue to yield positive results.

She also praised the teachers, administrators and support staff of Chrisland Schools, describing educators as nation builders whose influence extends beyond the classroom through mentorship, guidance and character formation.

Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to youth development, Dr. Sanwo-Olu highlighted ongoing investments in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, social inclusion and family-focused programmes aimed at helping young people realise their full potential.

She urged the graduating students to become worthy ambassadors of integrity wherever life takes them, encouraging them to make ethical decisions even when no one is watching and to allow the values instilled by their parents and Chrisland Schools to shape their future.

She congratulated members of the graduating class and prize recipients for their outstanding accomplishments and prayed for wisdom, favour and greater opportunities as they embark on the next stage of their academic and professional journeys.

The 2026 Joint Valedictory Service and Prize-Giving Ceremony celebrated the achievements of Chrisland Schools’ graduating students while reaffirming the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, character development and leadership training.