• Urges Graduates to Contribute to Nigeria’s Growth, Avoid Seeking Jobs Abroad
President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the ongoing economic reforms under his administration are close to delivering positive results to alleviate the current socio-economic challenges facing the country.
He emphasized that the reforms, part of the Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA), are nearing completion and will usher in a new era of prosperity.
In his address at the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremony of the University of Uyo, Tinubu urged graduates to resist the temptation of seeking opportunities abroad.
He called on them to help create opportunities at home, stressing that Nigeria has the potential to make its pastures as green, if not greener, than those in other countries.
Represented by the vice chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, Tinubu told the graduands, “As you go into the world, I urge you to be agents of change, using your knowledge and tools in uplifting our society and contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria and the world at large.”
Acknowledging the challenges currently facing Nigeria, Tinubu assured citizens that measures are being implemented to reduce the hardships, particularly for vulnerable groups.
He also noted that despite the growth in tertiary education, research outcomes often remain underutilized, urging universities to focus on demand-driven research that can directly benefit society.
In his message, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, a recipient of a doctorate degree from the University, praised perseverance as key to achieving success.
Meanwhile, Prof. Zubairu Abdullah, the university’s pro-chancellor, commended the president for reforms like the student loan scheme but raised concerns about land encroachment on the university’s property.
The Chancellor of the University, Alhaji Abubakar Maje, also congratulated the graduates, encouraging them to uphold the values that guided their academic journey.
The vice chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, highlighted the university’s notable achievements despite economic constraints, including significant progress in infrastructure development and over 90% accreditation for its academic programs.