Chioma Ogwua
LAGOS — It was a memorable day of celebration at Grandmates Schools, Okota, Lagos, as the institution rolled out the red carpet to honour its graduating students and celebrate outstanding academic performances at its 2026 Valedictory Ceremony. 
The colourful ceremony, held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Zion Hall, Isolo, Lagos, brought together students, parents and guardians, teachers, members of the school’s Board, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), management and other guests to celebrate the achievements recorded during the 2025/2026 academic session.
The occasion featured a blend of graduation activities, academic awards, inspiring speeches, cultural performances and entertainment, providing an opportunity for the school community to reflect on the students’ achievements while preparing them for the next phase of their educational journey.
Among the major highlights was the graduation of 54 students, while another 64 students successfully progressed from Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) to Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1), marking significant milestones in their academic development.
In her valedictory address, the Principal,Mrs Ijeoma Toluwase congratulated the students and reminded them that the ceremony represented not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with greater responsibilities, opportunities and challenges.
She urged the graduating students to approach the future with determination, stressing the need for hard work, discipline, proper planning and perseverance.
The Principal advised the students to set realistic goals, develop a clear vision for their future and remain committed to achieving their ambitions despite difficulties that might arise along the way.
She also warned them against distractions and negative peer influence, particularly behaviours and trends that could undermine their academic progress and future aspirations.
According to her, students should carefully choose their friends because the people they associate with can significantly influence their decisions, attitudes and character.
The Principal placed strong emphasis on character, urging the students to uphold honesty, integrity, humility, respect, responsibility and compassion wherever they find themselves.
She cautioned them against destructive behaviours such as examination malpractice, drug abuse, cultism, internet fraud, violence, dishonesty and laziness, noting that such actions could destroy the opportunities they had worked hard to create.
Mrs Toluwase further encouraged the students to embrace lifelong learning and acquire practical skills that could complement their formal education, explaining that practical skills could help young people become creative problem-solvers, increase their confidence and open additional opportunities for personal and economic development
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the recognition of students and teachers who distinguished themselves through exceptional academic performance, discipline, good conduct and dedication throughout the academic session.
Among the students celebrated were Odinaka Ogidi and Rhema Ugbo, who emerged winners of the Ose Brain Quest Periodic Table Quiz. They were presented with awards alongside a cash prize of N35,000 for their outstanding performance.
Dibie Christabel also received special recognition after emerging as the student with the highest IQ. She was rewarded with a cash prize of N100,000 from Purvey Limited.
The Parent-Teacher Association through the Chairman,Comrade Uche Ohaji, also used the occasion to acknowledge teachers and students whose commitment and achievements contributed to the success of the school during the academic year.
Miss Ataiku Helen and Mr. Egonu Alex were honoured as the Most Outstanding Teachers for their dedication to teaching and their contributions to the academic and character development of the students.
The PTA also rewarded exceptional graduating students, with Ugochukwu Mirabel emerging as the Best Graduating Student (Female), while Amobi Great was recognised as the Best Graduating Student (Male) and the male student with the highest JAMB score.
Blessing Obiozor was also honoured after recording the highest JAMB score among the female students.
The presentation of the awards added excitement to the ceremony, as parents, teachers and fellow students applauded the recipients and celebrated their hard work and accomplishments.
Speaking with newsmen,the Director of Grandmates Schools, Mr. O.O. Adepoju, congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their education as they move into the next phase of their lives.
Adepoju urged the students to preserve the values they had acquired at Grandmates Schools and make thoughtful decisions that would positively shape their future.
He commended the parents and guardians for their sacrifices, support and commitment to the education of their children, while also appreciating the teachers and members of staff for their patience, dedication and contribution to the students’ development.
The Director expressed confidence that the graduates would excel in their chosen careers and become responsible citizens capable of making meaningful contributions to their families, communities and the nation.
He therefore encouraged them to pursue their dreams with courage and determination while remaining conscious of the responsibilities that come with success.
Investigator news reports that the programme featured Bible reading, prayers, a word of exhortation, drama presentation and cultural dance performances, showcasing both the talents and creativity of the students.
A special dance presentation by the SS3 students alongside their parents was another major attraction, with cutting of the cake,draw applause and creating memorable moments for the school community.
As the event drew to a close, the graduating students were encouraged to carry the lessons and values acquired at Grandmates Schools into the next phase of their lives.
