The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David A. B. Mark, GCON, has urged graduating students of Pace Setters College, Abuja, to uphold integrity, embrace lifelong learning, and prepare themselves to thrive in a rapidly changing world driven by technology and innovation.
Speaking as the Guest Speaker at the 2026 Graduation, Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremony of the college on Sunday, Senator Mark described education as the greatest investment any nation can make in its future, stressing that academic excellence alone is no longer sufficient for success in today's global environment.
He told the graduating Class of 2026 that while certificates may open doors, it is character and integrity that sustain lasting success.
"As you graduate today, you are stepping into a world transformed by Artificial Intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, renewable energy and the digital economy. This new world demands adaptability, resilience, creativity, critical thinking and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning," he said.
Senator Mark advised the graduands never to stop learning, to value integrity above material success, embrace hard work, dream beyond their circumstances, and strive to become solution providers capable of creating value and improving society.
Expressing optimism about Nigeria's future, the former Senate President said the country's young people possess the talent, innovation and technological capacity needed to transform the nation. He, however, noted that achieving that future would require responsible leadership, patriotism, accountability, respect for the rule of law and the courage to stand for what is right.
He reminded the students that "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."
Senator Mark also paid tribute to parents, guardians and teachers for their sacrifices and commitment to nurturing the next generation, describing educators as indispensable nation-builders.
He congratulated students who received prizes and honours, urging them to remain humble, while encouraging those who were not recognised with awards not to lose hope, noting that life is a marathon rather than a sprint.
The ADC National Chairman further commended the Proprietor of Pace Setters College, Barrister Kenneth Imansuagbon, for his sustained investment in quality education and his commitment to empowering young people through learning.
He concluded by encouraging the graduating students to measure success not by wealth but by the lives they impact, the values they uphold and the legacy they leave behind.
"Go into the world with confidence. Lead with integrity. Serve with humility. Pursue excellence with courage, and always remember that your greatest competition is not another person—it is the person you were yesterday," Senator Mark stated.
