FIC Report (Abia State) – The President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that good education is necessary to understand the complexity of the problems that face the nation and also a tool to develop innovative and effective strategies to address socio economic and political issues confronting our nation.
The President who was represented by the Director (Extension),the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Deola lordbanjou, made this known in his address as a special guest of honour in the 12th convocation ceremony of Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture, Umuahia on Saturday 30th November, 2024.
He said “This administration is aware of the unique role that quality education can play on developing men and women of character, who are citizens dedicated to the service of their fatherland and can help solve problems of our nation which are numerous, multi-faceted and complicated”.
He also noted that agriculture remains strategic in the nations’ fight against its diverse and deep-rooted problem, hence his government increase in agricultural universities in Nigeria.
Also speaking as a special guest in the event, Abia State Governor Dr Alex Chioma Otti who was represented by his Deputy Engr Ikechukwu Emetu declared his dedication to enhancing institutions and creating a supportive learning environment for students.
Otti emphasized the importance of agriculture and innovation in boosting the state’s economy and acknowledged the pivotal role as the future leaders and innovators will play in advancing these sectors.
He pointed out that his administration focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, vocational having research development, emphasizing that education extends beyond degrees into real word application.
Gov Alex Otti commended Michael Okpara university of Agriculture, umuahia for not only being a place of learning but also a hub of knowledge innovation and transformation that has significantly contributed to economic development of Abia state and beyond.
He congratulated all the graduants and said “As you enter this new chapter of your lives, I encourage you to be determined in chasing your dreams, uphold your belief and recognize the importance of ethical leadership”. The Vice Chancellor of Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture Umudahia, Prof Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, in his address, thanked his Excellency for honouring with his presence and appreciated him for his kind responses to the needs of the university.
In his words, “we are happy with his Excellency for endorsing the title of the university land, and we are waiting for the handover of the documents to the university soonest.”
The Vice Chancellor also thanked the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Good Security, the Honorable Minister of Education and the Executive Secretary of the National University Commission, and other Agencies of the government for collaborating with them.
Still speaking, the VC congratulated all the graduants for pulling through despite all huddles and encouraged the students to remain major stakeholders in the education industry and the community.
He exposed that some of the main challenges institutions face include, endless industrial strike actions which continue to affect the calendar year, paucity of funds, lack of good access road and pleaded with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to do what they are supposed to do to resolve the unending problem which is almost becoming a cancer to education.
Also the best graduating student Paul promise Chibuike, with a G.P of 4.92 from Biochemistry Department while delivering his valedictory pointed out that it is an indescribable honour to stand as the best overall graduating student for the convocation of year 2024.
In his words, “it is a moment of gratitude and reflection: a moment to celebrate our collective achievement and unwavering foundation that brought them thus far.”
He attributed his success to God, encouragement from his parents and loved one, his incredible lectures for their unwavering dedication to impacting knowledge, the teamwork as students, and his resilience and determination to be best.
The event featured a presentation of awards to outstanding students, and the event was well attended by vice Chancellors and academics from other tertiary institutions.
Signed
Amah Ijeoma
Deputy Governor’s Office Correspondent
FIC.
