Follow Us on Google
By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Federal Government College (FGC), Ijanikin, Lagos State, held its 2025 speech and prize giving day to celebrate academic excellence, hard work, talent, and dedication among students and staff.
The event, held at the school’s Adebisi Kafaru Hall, served as an avenue to honour outstanding students and staff who excelled in academics and character during the 2024/2025 academic session. Awards were presented not only to the best performing individuals but also to those who demonstrated remarkable improvement, commendable behaviour, and talent.
In his address, the Principal, Dr. Kehinde Tokunbo-Famuyibo, emphasized the importance of recognizing excellence across all areas.
“This is a special day the students always look forward to. Those who received plaques and gifts today must not relent; they should be even more focused. And those who didn’t win should not feel discouraged—the opportunity comes again next year.”
“This is also a day for inspiration. We invite motivational speakers to guide the students and chart a path towards greater academic success,” he noted.
He added that the school celebrates heads of departments and units who rendered exceptional service beyond their primary teaching duties, and encouraged students to continue striving for excellence.
He added: “This event is not just about celebrating the best students, but also those who have improved significantly. We recognize good behaviour, neatness, and caring attitudes among students, and we also reward our teaching and non-teaching staffs who have gone above and beyond in their roles.
“The school has made several contributions to improve the learning environment: from solar power installations ensuring steady electricity, to the resolution of water supply issues, and renovation of classrooms by the PTA and individual parents. Presently, 150 students are undergoing Robotics and Coding training at a STEM company in Victoria Island.
These are relevant skills for the future of work and our parents are happy about it.”
Tokunbo-Famuyibo, who hinted he would be leaving the school soon, expressed hope that his successor would build on the foundation laid.
“I’ve served as Principal/Director in two other Federal Government Colleges before coming to Ijanikin. Here, the students fondly call me ‘Popsi’ because of my deep concern for their welfare. I ensure they have food, water, light, and security—everything needed for a conducive learning environment.
“I hope my legacy of compassion, development, and student-focused leadership becomes part of the school’s culture. Our motto remains: Excellence in Learning and Character. Intelligence without character is not true excellence,” he noted.
The guest speaker, Dr. Ganiyu Abisoye Bamgbose, a lecturer in the Department of English at Lagos State University, urged students to pursue education not merely for certification but for relevance.
“Education without purpose is a waste. We must shift our focus from certificates to competence. Ask yourself: how will I contribute to society? Education must foster critical and creative thinking. Teaching will never be outdated, but you can become irrelevant if you don’t keep developing your skills. Learning is continuous.
“Success is intentional. If all your blessings come in one day, where will you keep them? Be willing to go through the process,” he stressed.
He encouraged the students to be visionary, patient, and to place value above quick gains.
Mrs. Modupe Ayodele Akala, Vice Principal and Director of the Senior School, disclosed that the school community remains committed to rewarding academic excellence and character.
She cautioned students about the distractions of modern life, especially the Internet and urged them to stay focused on their goals.
The event’s chairman, MD/CEO of Adenush Nigeria Ltd, Alhaji Adeyemi Anifowoshe, represented by Mr. Adeshina Anifowoshe, encouraged the students to remain courageous and focused, reminding them to always remember their roots.
One of the celebrated students, Umeh Chimamanda Lucia, a science student with a passion for writing, shared her journey and inspiration.
“My love for writing is rooted in my imagination and personal experiences. My first book was published thanks to my mom’s support. I’ve been inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and my mom. My time at Ijanikin is filled with memorable moments, from the camaraderie among students to the traditions that shaped us. The key lesson is: whatever you’re pursuing, be courageous and stay focused.
