Shine Your Light by Olanegan S. K.

A quick look at our society today presents to us a pathetic picture of darkness and hopelessness. The man who does right is seen as being odd. The one who steals and loots the common treasury is applauded. There is evil in almost all spheres of life. Corruption, oppression, tribalism, nepotism, selfishness and many other social ills, which are inimical to peace and progress, are plaguing and terrorizing our dear nation.

The beauty of light is best appreciated in the midst of tick darkness; I therefor enjoin you to go into the world and shine your light. You have been in ABEC these six years and have not only seen the light, but have been part of the light here. It’s now time to go out there and shine the light  you have received here. Show to the whole world how to do things right.

As  you proceed with your academic pursuit, shine   your light in the universities.  show them that cultism is not the right way of life. Let them  known that rioting and destruction of school properties will never bring   solution to their problems. Show   them that laziness and ‘’sorting’’ will aggravate  the failing standard of education. Be a light to all that come   your way- colleagues or superiors. Let them known that there is dignity in labour;  let them let them see  in you   the beautiful   reward for hard  work. Shun    laziness and Idleness. Be committed  to your studies and thing that promote peace.

On our part as a school, we have taught you; we have trained you; we have equipped you; we have practically shown you the right way.  go out there and let everyone know it that you are from ABEC. Remember we are “The Best of The Best”. Be the best academically; be the best morally; be the best professionally; be the best in every good thing. Refuse to join the corrupt men and women in the society. Stand for . honesty and uprightness. Remember our popular Bible passage in Proverbs 1:10 ”My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not”

It is true that our hope of seeing the ills of the society corrected by our supposed leaders is been dampened by the day, but as I see you going into the world today, the hope is rekindled within me. I am very sure that you will get there, turn things around and make positive impact in this country. There is hope for Nigeria!

Ladies and gentlemen, we need leaders and not rulers; we need people who will lead by example and not by coercion; we need people who will not only say, but do what is right. Make up your mind as you graduate from ABEC today. Decide to be the agent of change we have been waiting for. Go out with that determination, remembering that you are the ambassadors of your families and ABEC. Shun selfishness; detest pride; avoid insensitivity to others’ feelings and plights. You will soon discover that you are the leaders we have been praying and waiting for.

Your light no man shall be able to cover; Your success no man shall be able to stop; Your progress no man shall be able to hinder;

Go and shine your light.