By our Reporter.
Start-Rite International School, a renowned academic institution in Abuja, hosted a colourful and well-attended graduation ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of its Year 12 Class of 2025. Themed “Poised for Excellence,” the event was held at the school premises and marked a defining moment in the students’ educational journey.
The occasion drew an impressive lineup of distinguished guests, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem; former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, and his wife, Justice Folashade Ojo; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, whose daughter was the Head Girl and Salutatorian; and former Minister of Education and Health, Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, who is also a grandparent of one of the students.
Other prominent figures in attendance included Senator Emmanuel Dangana Ocheja, Chairman of the Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Enugu; Prof. Olubunmi Shittu, Acting Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE); AIG Hajiya Aishatu Abubakar Baju, Gimbiyar Biu; and the event’s Chief Host, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Start-Rite Schools and Pro-Chancellor of FUOYE. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Sunday Ishaya of the University of Abuja.
In his opening remarks, Principal Mr. Femi Akinlade praised the graduating students and acknowledged the unwavering support of parents. He emphasized the school’s vision of nurturing well-rounded individuals who are academically excellent, morally upright, and socially responsible.
“Our theme ‘Poised for Excellence’ is a reflection of our dedication to shaping students who will impact their world positively,” he said.
Senator Ndoma-Egba, speaking as Chairman of the Advisory Board, highlighted the school’s achievements over the years. He spoke about Start-Rite’s transformation from a humble beginning in 2008 to a school of global relevance.
“We are no longer aspiring to be a great school—we are becoming The School. We’ve hosted Africa’s first COBIS-TEDx event, pioneered WAEC’s Computer-Based Testing pilot in Abuja, and nurtured talents like Ethan Ogiehor, Oluwadamilola Adesoro, and Chukwudubem Amasiani, who are already making waves globally,” he said.
He also cited successful alumni such as filmmaker Oghenetanure Akpoke and social change advocate Zipporah Egenege as proof that the Start-Rite legacy endures beyond graduation.
Guest Speaker Prof. Ishaya, in his address titled “Poised For Excellence: Building Competence, Capacity, and Character,” urged the graduands to embrace the “three Cs” as keys to success. He encouraged them to choose their university associations wisely, cautioning them to avoid negative influences and surround themselves with learners and leaders.
Acting FUOYE Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shittu, commended the high standards at Start-Rite and applauded the school’s leadership for fostering academic and moral excellence.
“This school is producing students who can compete on the global stage. The quality, environment, and teaching staff here are exemplary,” he remarked.
The Class of 2025 graduated with joy and pride, prepared to take on future challenges. Imani Marissa Bassi emerged as the Valedictorian and overall best graduating student, followed by Ogechi Abaribe as Salutatorian, and Halima Bakari in third place. Several students received awards and cash prizes for their outstanding academic performance, while some parents and teachers were also honoured.
Earlier in the week, Start-Rite had celebrated the graduation of its Year 6 Primary Class of 2025, graced by notable personalities including former Senate President Senator David Mark, traditional ruler Dr. Eimonye, and retired Major General Garba Audu.
With its unwavering commitment to excellence, Start-Rite International School continues to stand as a beacon of quality education in Nigeria and beyond.
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