…Says real success takes time, strong values, and solid foundations

University of Ibadan, UI, alumna and Chief Executive Officer of Beige Spaces Limited, Mrs. Bola Olajomi-Otubu, has cautioned the Class of 2025 against being misled by the illusions and noise of social media, urging them to prioritise character, discipline and long-term value over online validation.

Speaking at the institution’s convocation ceremony, Olajomi-Otubu said the digital environment has created unrealistic expectations about success, adding that graduates must resist the pressure to compare themselves with others or chase “instant achievement” portrayed online.

“The world is loud, especially online. Loud is not always right. The internet does not forget. Stillness is power,” she warned.

She noted that a meaningful life cannot be built on social media trends or the pursuit of curated lifestyles, stressing that graduates must be mindful of the digital footprints they leave behind. According to her, genuine success demands patience, resilience and values that outlast online applause.

“Choose the hard and the right over the easy and the quick. Real success is not instant. It is slow-cooked like smoky jollof rice. Good things take time,” she said.

Olajomi-Otubu, a second-generation alumna whose father, HRH Prof. Amusat Titilayo Hassan, spent over four decades at the university, said UI provided her with a strong foundation that has guided her through career shifts, setbacks and eventual growth into a leading construction entrepreneur.

She described the institution as a “training ground” and “refining fire” that shaped her personal and professional journey. “Any building that will stand tall must rest on the right foundation. The same applies to life. Our foundations are critical,” she noted.

The CEO recounted her journey from psychology graduate to human resources professional and later founder of a construction firm employing nearly 60 people. She said losing her job at one point became a turning point because she had the resilience—which she credited to UI—to rebuild.

“That is how strong the foundation this university gave me is. I can rebuild, pivot or completely change my path because I carry the lessons I learned within these great walls,” she said.

Turning to spirituality, she emphasised faith in God as her anchor, advising graduates to adopt courage, patience and discipline as they navigate the challenges of real life. “Life after UI will test your resolve. There will be days when your plans collapse like an unreinforced structure. Remember your foundation,” she said.

Olajomi-Otubu also highlighted the importance of community, shared values and resilience, noting that life in Nigeria often requires creativity and grit. “In Nigeria, life does not throw lemons. It throws pepper, pepper pro max. Learn to make pepper soup on your way to greatness,” she added.

Referencing distinguished UI alumni including Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Prof. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti and Prof. Grace Alele-Williams, she reminded the Class of 2025 that they are inheriting a legacy of excellence and must build on it.

“You are the next set of shoulders for others to stand on,” she told them.

She urged the graduates to step into the world as builders of the future—guided not by the illusions of the internet but by solid foundations, purpose and integrity. “Believe that your story matters. Believe that you can rise from pepper to purpose. Your purpose will be your compass,” she said.

Concluding her address, she charged the class: “Go forth. May your foundations hold strong, your faith shine bright and your future stand tall.”