President Bola Tinubu urges Nigerian graduates at UNIUYO's convocation to use their skills for national development and resist the urge to seek opportunities abroad. He emphasizes education as a key driver of progress, calling on universities to focus on impactful research to contribute to the country's growth.
During the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremonies at the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), President Bola Tinubu called on Nigerian graduates to focus on using their knowledge and skills to contribute to the country's growth, rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Tinubu, speaking at the university's main campus, emphasized that education is crucial to driving national development. He urged universities to engage in research that fosters national progress and urged graduates to channel their expertise toward improving Nigeria. “The government has made significant investments in your education to prepare you for meaningful contributions to society. As you enter the world, be agents of positive change. Resist the urge to seek better opportunities elsewhere,” he stated.
Professor Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, spoke on behalf of the president, highlighting concerns about the limited impact of research in Nigeria. While acknowledging the nation's challenges, he reassured the audience of the government's commitment to addressing them, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Alhaji Abubakar Maje, Chancellor of UNIUYO, also praised the graduates for their success, noting that adherence to discipline and hard work had played a key role in their achievements. He called for unity in supporting the government’s vision for Nigeria's future.
Professor Zubairu Abdallah, the Pro-Chancellor of UNIUYO, thanked the president for initiatives like the student loan scheme and called for more government funding to enhance the university’s growth, particularly in its science departments.