Command Day Secondary School, Akure, the Ondo State Capital was filled with emotion, inspiration, and spiritual charge as it held its 13th Valedictory Service to honour the Class of 2025.
The event, held at the school auditorium on Wednesday, brought together military leaders, traditional rulers, spiritual figures, parents, teachers, and students for a colorful send-forth ceremony.
The Special Guest of Honourand General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu, represented by Colonel Kyari Babakura, Garrison Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade urged the graduating students to carry forward values of discipline, loyalty, integrity, and excellence.
“The future begins now—with the decisions you make and the values you uphold,” he stated, praising the students’ performance and the leadership of the school.
The Nigerian Army, he said, is continuously investing in modern learning tools, personnel development, and infrastructural upgrades to ensure command schools remain among the best in the country.
Onubogu reminded students that wherever life leads them—be it universities, polytechnics, military institutions, or other ventures—they must carry the values instilled in them at Command: discipline, loyalty, integrity, and excellence.
“These values define true leaders. They also define Command students,”Onubogu affirmed.
He used the moment to appreciate the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers and encouraged the students never to take their freedom for granted.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in defending our sovereignty. The daily sacrifices made by gallant officers and soldiers are so that your dreams can thrive in peace,” he stated.
Onubogu also saluted the parents and guardians present, commending their role in the students’ journey.
“You have invested time, resources, and love into your children’s success. Their growth is your victory,” he said.
The school’s Commandant, Lt. Col. Shamsudeen Zailani, lauded the dedication of parents, teachers, and staff and called on the graduates to uphold the image and legacy of the school.
“Be ambassadors of Command Day Secondary School Akure anywhere you go,” he told the students.
Head Girl’s Emotional Farewell
The outgoing Head Girl, Oluwasanmi Idowu, delivered a touching valedictory speech, thanking the teaching and non-teaching staff, classmates, and juniors for their support during her leadership.
“Being Senior Prefect was challenging and rewarding. I have learned life lessons I will carry forever. I urge my successors and juniors to remain united and defend the integrity of this great school,” she said.
Royal Father Calls for Character-Based Leadership
The royal father of the day, His Royal Highness, Agbaka of Alagbaka, Oba Afolabi Obasuyi, advised the graduates to embrace visionary leadership and moral responsibility.
“It is not your title or your background that makes you a leader, but your daily decisions, your discipline, and your compassion,” he declared. “Nigeria needs young leaders, not noise-makers.”
Prophet Oluwamodede’s Prophetic Charge: ‘Righteousness Exalts a Nation’
The spiritual highlight of the ceremony came from the guest preacher, Prophet Samson Oluwamodede, who delivered a fiery and passionate sermon rooted in Proverbs 14:34: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”
He urged students and Nigerians alike to embrace righteousness as the only lasting solution to Nigeria’s moral, political, and economic problems.
“We are the nations the Bible refers to. If Nigeria must rise, every citizen must live righteously—pastors, politicians, students, soldiers, and parents alike,” he said.
He condemned societal tolerance for corruption, referencing public celebrations of convicted individuals as shameful examples of moral decay.
Celebrating Excellence
The event was also an occasion to honor outstanding performances:
Awards of Excellence were presented to the best-performing students across various subjects and classes.
Awards of Recognition were given to some dignitaries and guests who have supported the school’s growth and mission.
Highlights of the event included prayers, cultural presentations, and moments of reflection as the Class of 2025 took their final bow, cheered on by proud parents and guardians.
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