By correspondent in Ilorin.
The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the educational sector and empowering Nigerian youths, calling on graduates to play active roles in addressing the country’s challenges.
Tinubu made this statement during the 39th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Ilorin on Tuesday.
He was represented by the Minister of State for Education, Hon. Yusuf Tanko Sununu.
Addressing the graduating students, Tinubu congratulated them on their academic success and charged them to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s progress.
“As you step into the real world, the onus is on you to contribute your quota to the greatness of this country. Remember that your existence will only be meaningful if you make positive impacts,” he said.
Acknowledging the economic and security challenges facing Nigeria, the President expressed confidence in the resilience of the nation.
He urged the youth to take up leadership roles, emphasizing their intelligence, courage, and integrity as essential tools for tackling the country’s pressing issues.
Tinubu also explained the Federal Government’s efforts to support students through initiatives like the Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND), which provides financial aid for students.
“The Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) has come to stay to provide opportunities and access for students to learn with ease and pay back later,” he noted, encouraging students to utilize the scheme fully.
The President assured the government’s commitment to maintaining an uninterrupted academic calendar and called for peaceful dialogue between academic staff and the government to resolve any disputes.
He further announced that recent waivers had been granted to universities to address staffing shortages by recruiting additional personnel.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Surv. Abiodun Aluko, praised the university for maintaining its position as the most sought-after institution in Nigeria.
He also lauded the establishment of NELFUND, describing it as a significant relief for students and their families.
Aluko also commended Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for infrastructural developments around the university, particularly the completion of a flyover bridge that has eased traffic congestion in the area.
Governor AbdulRazaq, represented by the Executive Chairman of Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, urged the graduates to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship to contribute positively to the nation’s future.
“As you step into the wider world, I urge you to be drivers of positive change, innovators, and entrepreneurs,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, noted the institution’s contributions to national development through the production of notable Nigerians.
He encouraged the graduates to remain adaptable and continue learning in the face of global competition.
The convocation ceremony was graced by dignitaries, stakeholders, parents, and royal fathers, who celebrated the achievements of the graduates and the university.
Edited by Dada Ahmed
