President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has affirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s educational institutions, aiming to provide high-quality education in alignment with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
He made this declaration during the 11th Convocation ceremony of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU) on Saturday, emphasizing the pivotal role of qualitative education in nurturing individuals of character who contribute positively to their nation.
President Tinubu underscored the necessity of good education in a competitive world, stating, “Good education is a necessity, especially in a competitive world for creative thinking and innovative correct decision making required to properly address the complex and complicated socio-economic and political problems confronting our nation.” He urged MOUAU to remain dedicated to the pursuit of quality education, emphasizing its significance as a cardinal principle of national development and a lasting legacy for future generations.
Represented by Prof. Garba Hamidu Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), President Tinubu acknowledged the well-thought-out establishment of specialized Universities of Agriculture to achieve food security and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He called on the private sector to collaborate with these universities, forming partnerships and linkages to enhance agricultural research findings for mutual benefit.
“The establishment of specialized Universities of Agricultures in this country was well thought-out and properly planned,” noted Prof. Sharubutu. He urged private organizations to engage in partnerships with Universities of Agriculture, emphasizing their crucial role in driving the transformation of the agricultural sector to meet food security and SDGs.
President Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration is actively addressing challenges faced by citizens, including plans for local refineries to start production soon. He expressed determination to find lasting solutions to socio-economic and political problems, emphasizing the importance of dealing with root causes.
Acknowledging the burden of insecurity in Nigeria, President Tinubu assured that it would soon become history. He urged citizens to support the administration’s efforts in overcoming hardships and reiterated the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in tertiary institutions.
The Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, shared his vision for the university, emphasizing its role as a knowledge-giving, society-conscious, and world-class institution. He outlined a commitment to producing competent graduates with entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills, poised to positively impact society.
The convocation ceremony celebrated a total of 8,369 graduands, marking a significant milestone for the university.
