Hon. Target Segibo, Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area (LGA) in Bayelsa, has advised secondary students to leverage on academic opportunities to prepare themselves for leadership.

The council boss, who spoke to students at Southern Ijaw Secondary School, Oporoma (SISSO) urged them to take their studies seriously to come out with good grades and become dependable representatives.

Segibo gave the advice on Monday at the end of the 2024 academic year activities of the school held at Oporoma, headquarters of Southern Ijaw LGA.

Segibo who is a 1988 graduate of the school said the daily increasing academic competition in the globe, those who come out with low grades in their West African Examination Council (WAEC) sittings will not have a space in pursuit for further studies,

The council chairman, a former member of Bayelsa State House of Assembly called on the students to utilise the opportunity they have to develop themselves.

He commended former governor Seriake Dickson for upgrading the school during his tenure, stating that Southern Ijaw Secondary School, Oporoma has produced high profile politicians, academics and others in the federal and state civil service.

“I grew up from a very humble background, and I grew in humility to where I am today.

“I had only a pair of school uniform provided for me by my parents. But I worked hard,doing menial jobs to provide others things for myself.

“I wish to sincerely encourage all of you to take your studies seriously because no student who graduates with low grades will have access to further studies, and the competition is increasing daily even to employment.

“Some of your peers, friends do not have this opportunity that you have to be in school.

“This school has produced some highly placed people in society, and that’s because they worked hard for it.

“I can name the likes of Rt .Honourable Talford Ongolo, Rt.Honourable Monday Bubou Obolo, Late Sen. David Cobina Brigidi, Hon Donald Egberibein,myself and Hawkins Kalabo amongst others.

“The only offices we have not occupied is that of deputy governor and governo,” Segibo said.

Activities at the event include presentation of awards to overall best students in JS various classes, most active prefects, well-behaved students amongst others.