Students of Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, were greeted with an unusual sight as the school resumed for the 2026/2027 academic session, with the Principal, Ven. Joseph Oyewale Adediji, appearing on the assembly ground dressed in the same uniform worn by the students.
The unexpected appearance on Monday, September 14, attracted the attention of the students and created a relaxed atmosphere before the principal delivered a message focused on purpose, discipline, character and service.
Adediji’s sermon, titled “I Will Be Great,” was based on Genesis 12:1–3. He used the biblical account of Abram to encourage the students to develop faith, discipline and obedience as they pursue their future goals.
According to the principal, greatness should not be measured by wealth, popularity, social status or worldly achievements. He told the students that true greatness begins with God, is sustained by obedience and should ultimately be demonstrated through service to humanity.
He also reminded the students that their admission into Igbobi College should not be taken for granted. Rather, he described it as a privilege that comes with responsibility.
“You have been brought here for a purpose,” Adediji told the students, urging them to embrace the discipline, hard work, character and obedience required to fulfil that purpose.
The principal further encouraged the students to avoid distractions and negative influences while remaining committed to their academic, moral and spiritual development.
He urged them to remember the sacrifices their parents make to provide them with education, stressing that students have a responsibility to justify those sacrifices through responsible behaviour and commitment to their studies.
Adediji also drew the students’ attention to the rich history of Igbobi College and the achievements of its former students.
Among the notable alumni he mentioned were former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola; and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Rather than simply admiring accomplished former students, he encouraged the current generation to emulate qualities such as diligence, discipline, excellence, integrity and service.
“You are not called merely to succeed. You are called to become a blessing,” the principal said, emphasising the importance of using one’s talents and opportunities to positively affect society.
The resumption also featured the introduction of school shuttle buses to transport students from Angus Hall to their respective hostels. The arrangement was welcomed by parents and students, who said it helped reduce some of the logistical challenges associated with resumption day.
One parent, identified as Mrs Afolasade, commended the principal’s hands-on approach to leadership and the changes taking place within the college.
The assembly ended with prayers as the students and staff committed the new academic session, the school and their individual aspirations into God’s hands.
Igbobi College, established in 1932 by the Anglican and Methodist Churches, is located in Yaba, Lagos. The institution describes its mission as combining academic excellence with sound spirituality and character development.
As the new academic year begins, the principal’s unusual choice to wear the students’ uniform provided a memorable opening to his message: that greatness is not simply about achievement, but about character, responsibility and the willingness to become a blessing to others.
