President Tinubu to Graduates: Use Your Skills to Transform Nigeria—Don’t Seek Greener Pastures Abroad

During the 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies at the University of Uyo (UNIUYO) on Saturday, President Bola Tinubu encouraged Nigerian graduates to apply their skills to uplift society, urging them to remain in Nigeria to contribute to the country’s advancement rather than seeking opportunities overseas.

Speaking through Professor Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Tinubu highlighted education’s pivotal role in national development, emphasizing that graduates are equipped to make impactful changes at home.

“Education is fundamental to progress,” President Tinubu remarked, “and it must be responsive and transformative. The government has invested significantly in your education, preparing you to be catalysts for societal improvement.

I urge you to use your skills to drive Nigeria’s growth, resisting the urge to seek greener pastures abroad. Together, we can cultivate our own.”

Professor Georgewill, representing Tinubu, voiced concern that much of Nigeria’s research remains underutilized, calling for a shift toward innovative, impact-driven studies. He acknowledged Nigeria’s economic challenges but reassured attendees that the government is committed to reform efforts aimed at benefiting all Nigerians, especially the vulnerable.

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Supporting Tinubu’s call, UNIUYO’s Chancellor, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Maje, Emir of Hadejia, congratulated the graduates, attributing their success to discipline and character formation. He urged them to uphold unity and assist in realizing Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria. He further reflected on global powers that overcame similar challenges through resilience, encouraging the audience to adopt the same spirit.

Additionally, Pro-Chancellor Professor Zubairu Abdallah thanked Tinubu for initiatives like the student loan scheme, requesting increased funding for the university to enhance infrastructure and resources, especially in science labs.

Meanwhile, UNIUYO Vice Chancellor, Professor Nyaudo Ndaeyo, proudly noted that over 90% of the university’s programs are fully accredited, underscoring the administration’s achievements despite funding limitations and security issues.

As graduates celebrated their achievements, Tinubu’s message was clear: stay, contribute, and transform Nigeria into a beacon of progress and resilience.