Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Tuesday while delivering the special anniversary lecture at the 100th Anniversary of Baptist Boys' High School (BBHS), in Abeokuta, Ogun state.
BBHS is the alma mater of former President Olusegun Obsanjo, the late saige, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Late MKO Abiola, former Speaker of House of Representatives, Demeji Bankole, former Judge of the World Court, Prince Bola Ajibola, the Alake of Egbaland,Oba Aremu Gbadebo, amongst notable others.
The Vice President insisted that political leaders, religious institutions and business elites must agree that the country will fail completely if they fail to accept ethical revolution.
Osinbajo who obliquely referenced the past achievements of the former late premier of the Western Region, Obafemi Awolowo, MKO Abiola, former President Obasanjo, Chief Bola Ajibola in the nation, stated that the BBHS has shown that Nigeria can produce the highest quality individuals that can run the most efficient government and private institutions if the right values are taught.
He also stressed the need for the government to lead an ethical revolution as well as ensure speedy punishment for corruption across the nation.
Osinbajo argued that a huge deposit of natural resources and talent alone will not translate to wealth for the nation, saying that Nigeria can only thread the path of prosperity when the citizens are hardworking, diligent and trustworthy.
He said "BBHS has shown that Nigeria can produce the highest quality individuals that can run the most efficient government and private institutions if we teach the right values. There is national convesus or ite consensus -the political elites, religious and elites who must agree that our country will fail if we do not accept and implement an ethical revolution.
"We must establish a national work ethic of hardwork,honesty and discourage corruption. It is what istaught and learnt that hapes the character of individuals and nations. Government must also lead this ethical revolution by rewarding ethical behaviour and ensuring speedy punishment for dishonour.
"Huge deposits of natural resources and huge talents alone do not make or prosper a nation, otherwise, the country with the largest deposit of mineral wealth will be the most prosperous."
Earlier in his address, the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun stated that the institution produced men who have positively affected the socio economic development of Nigeria.
Abiodun noted the caliber of people who are old boys of the school shows that there is an interplay between the school and the destiny of Nigeria and the state.
"The great institution has continue to grow in stature over the past 100 years. It has imparted local society and nurtured minds, influenced major decisions and activists around the world.
"Today adds another milestone to the history of this school which has recorded success in human endeavor. The products of this institution have always demonstrated values and have become embodiments of character and integrity both in public and private life."
