By Sumaila Ogbaje
The President, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Maria Lagbaja, has reiterated her commitment to promoting academic excellence in NAOWA schools in support of the Nigerian Army’s educational drive.
Lagbaja made the commitment at the NAOWA College Abuja Speech and Prize Giving and Graduation Ceremony for the Year 2023/2024 Academic Session.
She congratulated the graduating class for their dedication and determination which had brought them to that stage in their educational development.
According to her, the presentation of the NAOWA President’s prizes and awards to outstanding students and teachers was introduced to honor the exceptional achievements of the students and teachers and to serve as an inspiration for others to strive for excellence.
“This initiative highlights my commitment to developing the potential of our future leaders and providing steadfast support to our dedicated educators who guide them.
“By recognising excellence, my aim is to motivate everyone in our community to reach new heights and contribute to a brighter, more promising future and society.”
NAOWA president urged the graduating students to embrace all the opportunities to improve themselves in both academics and vocational skills in their future academic pursuits and also be good ambassadors of the school.
“For the graduating class, your achievement today only sets the important foundation for your future development.
“Therefore, as you embark on the next phase of your educational journey, remember the core values instilled in you here at the College which are hard work, integrity, respect, and kindness.
“These values will help to guide you through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of you.”
Lagbaja advised parents to always guide their children in choosing the right career path without imposing their will in them.
She urged them to identify the innate ability and potential in their children to be able to guide and support them in their chosen career path.Educational
In her lecture, Nafeesat Dada, Chairperson, NAOWA Committee, said that every child needed mentorship from experienced and trusted role models to be able to make right choices.
Dada Spoke on the topic, “The Role of Mentorship in Success: Learning from those with experience”.
“Mentorship typically involves sharing expertise, knowledge, insight and network to help the mentee achieve their goals and navigate challenges.
“Montors help the mentees to set goals so that their development will not be ended.
“They can help mentee self, professional and personal development goals for effective goal setting.
“The mentee must trust that the mentor has their best interest in mind and will provide adequate and honest guidance.”
The Director of Administration of NAOWA College, Maj. Helen Otitolaiye, encouraged the graduands to reflect on the knowledge and experiences they had gained during their time in the school.
Otitolaiye urged them to embrace the challenges that lie ahead with confidence, knowing that they were well-prepared to make a positive impact in the world.
“I also want to express my deepest gratitude to the families and friends who have supported and encouraged our graduands throughout their academic journey in the school.
“Your unwavering support has played a crucial role in their success story, and today is a celebration of your dedication.
“I most sincerely thank the President NAOWA Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja for her continuous guidance, support and direction that has made today a reality.”
Cyril-Elvis Okoh, the College Headboy and the overall best graduating student of Class of 2024, said the occasion was filled with a mixture of emotions, pride, excitement, nostalgia and a hint of nervousness.
Okoh said the graduation marked a significant milestone in their lives, saying that graduation was not merely a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, but also a celebration of growth, resilience, and the countless memories they had created together.
“Each one of us has embarked on a unique journey faced with its own challenges and triumphs.
“But through it all, we have persevered, supported each other, and emerged stronger than ever.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured debate, cultural performance and prize awards to students and teachers in different categories. (NAN)