Remo Secondary School (RSS), Sagamu, Ogun State, has made history with the graduation of its Class of 2026, staging what is believed to be the first university-style valedictory ceremony by a public secondary school in the state.
The landmark event brought together students, parents, teachers, school administrators, alumni and distinguished guests in a colourful celebration marked by academic pageantry, as graduating students appeared in full academic gowns, caps and other graduation regalia.
In a significant departure from the conventional valedictory ceremonies associated with secondary schools, the school’s principal, teachers and members of the National Executive Council of the Remo Secondary School Old Students’ Association (RSSOSA) also wore academic gowns, recreating the atmosphere of a university convocation.
The innovative ceremony transformed the traditional valedictory service into a memorable graduation experience, underscoring the school’s commitment to celebrating academic excellence while inspiring students as they prepare for tertiary education and future careers.
Beyond celebrating the successful completion of secondary education, the event also recognised students who distinguished themselves through exemplary character, discipline, responsibility and moral conduct. Several awards were presented across different categories to honour students whose achievements extended beyond academics.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the award of full higher education scholarships to about 25 deserving students by the Hope Bridge Social Impact Foundation. The scholarships are expected to support the beneficiaries in pursuing tertiary education and achieving their academic aspirations.
Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Remo Secondary School Old Students’ Association (RSSOSA), Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, KOF, congratulated the graduating students and commended the school’s management, teachers and parents for their dedication to nurturing the students throughout their academic journey.
He also applauded the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun, for its sustained investment in education.
Emmanuelking particularly praised the administration’s Yellow Revolution initiative, describing it as a transformative intervention that has improved the learning environment in public schools across the state.
According to him, the governor’s deliberate focus on education has had a positive impact on institutions such as Remo Secondary School, strengthening their capacity to deliver quality education and positioning them for continued growth.
He also expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, for his leadership and contributions to advancing education in the state.
The event further underscored the enduring bond between the school and its alumni, whose strong presence and active participation reflected their unwavering commitment to the institution’s development.
With its unique university-themed graduation format, the ceremony is expected to remain one of the most memorable milestones in the history of Remo Secondary School and could serve as a model for similar celebrations in public secondary schools across Ogun State and Nigeria.
For the graduating Class of 2026, it was more than a farewell ceremony—it was a celebration of achievement, character and hope, as they were formally honoured before embarking on the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.
