Help grow Nigeria’s future, Tinubu urges graduates
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian university graduates to be patriotic and resist the temptation to seek greener pastures outside the country, claiming that Nigeria can make its pastures just as green, if not greener.The President made this appeal during his speech at the University of Uyo's 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremonies on Saturday, which were held on the institution's permanent grounds, Nwanniba Road.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, urged the graduates to be change agents by applying their knowledge and skills to solve societal problems for the benefit of the country and the world at large.
"As you enter the world, I encourage you to be change agents, using your knowledge and skills to improve our society and contribute to Nigeria's and the world's growth and development.
"I appeal to your patriotism and implore you to resist the temptation to seek greener pastures abroad. We can make our pastures as green, or even greener, than those in other countries."
While noting the country's current challenges, Tinubu stated that his administration is implementing measures to mitigate their impact on citizens, particularly the vulnerable.
The President expressed concern that, despite the establishment of numerous centres of learning across tertiary institutions, research findings frequently end up on the shelves of their respective authors.
He challenged universities to take the lead in promoting demand-driven research that will improve people's lives.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, who received a doctorate degree in political science from the University, stated in his goodwill message that the award was a testament to perseverance and faith in the endless and unchangeable possibilities that exist if one believes.
He added that the honour would inspire him to do more for the state.
Professor Zubairu Abdullah, University Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, praised the President for introducing the student loan scheme and other sector reforms, but expressed concern about land encroachment and grabbing by neighbouring communities and urged him to build a perimeter fence to combat the menace.
While congratulating the graduating students on their success, the University's Chancellor and Emir of Hadejia, Alh. (Dr) Abubakar Maje, advised them to follow the rules and regulations that will allow them to reach the pinnacle of their careers, both in character and learning.
In his address, the University's Vice Chancellor, Professor Nyaudo Ndaeyo, stated that the fallout from the overarching economic environment has limited the university's expectations, despite the fact that the institution has made landmark achievements in nearly all areas of development.
He emphasised his accomplishments, which included infrastructure development and other significant innovations such as the establishment of the university printing press and bookshops.
He stated that the university has achieved over 90% accreditation status, with the remaining 10% on interim status.
"Over 90% of our academic programmes are fully accredited, with the remaining 10% having interim status. We are working hard to represent the interim programs and achieve 100% full accreditation."
Professor Enefiok Essien, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Enobasi Essien Urua, and Professor Godfrey Udo were each awarded distinguished professor titles by the university.
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