The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has challenged graduating students of Beautiful Beginning Academy (BBA), Abuja, to embrace character, integrity and resilience as they prepare for the next phase of their lives.
Speaking as the Guest Speaker at the school’s 2026 graduation ceremony held at Nile University, Abuja, Ike described the event as not the end of an academic journey but the beginning of a life of purpose, service and limitless possibilities.
In her keynote address, she stressed that while academic success is important, lasting success is built on strong moral values and good character.
“The examinations that truly matter are not set by teachers but by life itself. They test honesty, courage, discipline, resilience, compassion and integrity,” she told the graduands.
She noted that although certificates and graduation gowns are worthy of celebration, life beyond the classroom would ultimately judge individuals by their character rather than their grades.
“The questions life asks are not answered with pencils; they are answered with character. Knowledge may make you intelligent, but character will make you unforgettable. Long after people forget your grades, they will remember your integrity. Long after certificates gather dust, your reputation will continue to speak for you,” she said.
Encouraging the graduates to remain resilient, Ike reminded them that setbacks are inevitable but should never define their future.
“There will be days when life will not go according to your plans. You may fail an examination, lose an opportunity, face disappointment or experience rejection. When those moments come, remember this: failure is not the opposite of success; it is often the road that leads to it,” she added.
She further advised the students to remain curious, develop a reading culture, respect others, choose their friends wisely and maintain confidence in themselves.
The NUJ FCT Chairman also paid glowing tribute to parents for their sacrifices and applauded the teachers and management of Beautiful Beginning Academy for nurturing future leaders through quality education and mentorship.
Charging the graduands to become agents of positive change, she urged them to build bridges instead of walls and to pursue lives defined by excellence, integrity, compassion and service.
“Success is not measured by how much money you make but by how many lives become better because you lived. Success may fill your pocket, but significance fills your purpose. Service earns respect. Character earns trust. Legacy earns remembrance,” she said.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a scholarship to Adaeze, a moment widely celebrated as a demonstration of the power of inclusive education, compassion and corporate philanthropy in creating opportunities for children with special needs.
Earlier, the Chairman of Beautiful Beginning Academy, Sir Chinasaokwu Innocent Okolie, charged the graduating students to be worthy ambassadors of the institution, expressing confidence that they would distinguish themselves as future leaders.
The colourful ceremony attracted parents, educators, well-wishers and distinguished guests who joined the graduating class in celebrating the milestone.
