Former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo emphasized the diminishing value of integrity, describing it as a scarce commodity, during his keynote address at the matriculation ceremony of MIVA Open University in Abuja. He highlighted that integrity serves as a vital currency in both business and interpersonal relationships.
Osinbajo urged students to embrace essential qualities for purposeful living, such as integrity, hard work, and collaboration, as they pursue their education. He advised them to focus on what endures beyond their lifetime, reinforcing the importance of steadfastness in their decisions.
He stated, “Integrity might sound like a cliché today, but it is the cornerstone of real success.” He urged the students to be consistent in their moral values, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling promises and being trustworthy. He remarked that individuals of integrity are increasingly sought after, even by those with less noble intentions, as trust is crucial for lasting success.
In his address, Osinbajo also acknowledged the evolving landscape of education, asserting that modular education—encompassing micro-credentials and digital badges—can effectively compete with traditional university degrees. This approach provides targeted skills and knowledge tailored to specific industries, equipping students for the demands of the modern job market.