National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has advised graduating students to prioritise integrity, hard work and character over money and the pursuit of quick success, stressing that “wealth acquired without honour is fleeting.”
The former Senate President gave the charge on Sunday while delivering a lecture at the 2026 Graduation, Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremony of Pace Setters College, Abuja, where he served as guest speaker.
Represented by Senator Tunde Ogbeha, Mark congratulated the graduands, parents, teachers and management of the school for sustaining what he described as “a tradition of academic excellence, moral discipline, and character formation.”
He said that while certificates and grades may create opportunities, character remains the foundation for lasting success.
“Your certificate may secure your first opportunity, but it is your character that will sustain your success. Knowledge may open doors, but integrity keeps them open,” he said.
Urging the graduating class to embrace lifelong learning and perseverance, Mark said:
“Graduation is not the end of your education; it is simply the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
“Wealth acquired without honour is fleeting, but a good name remains one of life’s greatest treasures. Your reputation is your greatest asset guard it jealously.
“There are no shortcuts to lasting success. Every worthwhile achievement is built on discipline, sacrifice, consistency, and perseverance.”
He encouraged the students to dream beyond their circumstances, adding that “The world does not reward those who merely identify problems; it rewards those who solve them.”
Mark expressed confidence in the ability of young Nigerians to transform the country but said the future would require responsible leadership, active citizenship, patriotism and the courage to defend what is right.
“Never underestimate the power of one honest citizen. Every great nation is built by ordinary men and women who make extraordinary choices—choosing integrity over corruption, service over selfishness, and excellence over mediocrity,” he added.
The former Senate President also commended the proprietor of Pace Setters College, Barrister Kenneth Imansuagbon, for his “unwavering commitment to quality education,” while urging award winners to remain humble and encouraging those who did not receive prizes not to lose hope.
“Life is not a hundred-metre sprint; it is a marathon. Continue to work diligently. Your own season of recognition will surely come,” he said.
He concluded by reminding the graduands that:
“True success is not measured by the wealth you accumulate, but by the lives you enrich, the values you uphold, and the legacy you leave behind. Go into the world with confidence. Lead with integrity. Serve with humility.”
