The Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, FCVSN, recently attended the Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, 13th Convocation Ceremony, where academic excellence, national reflection, and the emergence of a new generation of leaders were celebrated. The ceremony brought together dignitaries from government, the diplomatic community, corporate organisations, and development partners, and featured both a Convocation Lecture and the graduation ceremonies for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to uphold the values of the University as its worthy Ambassadors. He also commended Nile University for conferring Honoris Causa in Political Science and International Relations on former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, describing the recognition as well-deserved. Professor Ribadu further clarified that honorary degrees are traditionally awarded to individuals who are no longer in public service. He reaffirmed the NUC’s commitment to supporting Nigerian universities through effective regulation to ensure compliance with minimum academic standards.
The award was conferred on His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding, democratic consolidation, and leadership across Africa.
In his convocation address, the Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Dogo said Dr. Jonathan was chosen in recognition of his statesmanship, his contributions to strengthening democracy, and his efforts in promoting peace and good governance across Africa. Professor Dogo noted that, “Jonathan’s leadership style and post‑presidency engagements have continued to inspire a new generation of African leaders.
He added that the Honoris philosophy of “Education for Impact” aligns with the school’s mission to produce globally competitive graduates equipped with the practical competencies needed in the modern workforce.
“Africa missed the first three industrial revolutions. We must not lose out in the fourth. Our programmes are designed to ensure that the quality of education we provide is second to none,” he added.
During a thought-provoking lecture titled “Redefining the Nigerian Education System for the 21st Century Workforce,” delivered by Architect Sonny T. Echono, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), emphasised the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s educational ecosystem to equip young Nigerians with globally competitive skills—highlighting innovation, digital literacy, and industry-aligned learning as core pillars.
While receiving the award, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan applauded Nile University for its role in grooming future leaders and expressed confidence in the potential of Nigerian youth.
He stated, “It is better when you leave the office and people can objectively appreciate your contributions, so it does not appear like eye service.”
While congratulating the graduates, he underscored the need for character over mere certificates, stating that education should lead to personal transformation and good behaviour.
He also urged them to uphold integrity, discipline, and a commitment to national development as they step into the next phase of their lives.
The Convocation also showcased remarkable academic achievements as two graduands -Tosam-Jesse Michael Winter (Electrical & Electronics Engineering) and Fatima Kabir Abubakar (Petroleum & Gas Engineering, emerged as joint overall best graduating students, each earning a perfect 5.0 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
The University further demonstrated its dedication to developing future scholars by awarding 100% postgraduate scholarships to the eight best graduating students (with the three highest CGPAs), enabling them to pursue their Master’s degrees at Nile University.
As part of the postgraduate celebrations, Nile University also graduated its PhD students- including the pioneer cohort of PhD Law graduates-marking a major milestone in the growth and capacity of its School of Postgraduate Studies.
Parents, guests, and members of the academic community praised the institution for its academic standards and continued investment in research, student development, and global partners.
In their valedictory speeches, the overall best graduating students, Tosam‑Jesse Winter of the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department and Fatima Kabir Abubakar of the Petroleum and Gas Engineering Department, both with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 5.0, thanked the university management, their families, and lecturers for the support that shaped their academic journeys. The duo described their achievements as the result of discipline, resilience, and a conducive learning environment provided by Nile University.
The event was graced by the Chancellor of the University and Shehu of Borno, HRH Abubakar El‑Kanemi; Pro‑Chancellor John Vermaaten; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; his Jigawa counterpart Sule Lamido, Presidential Special Adviser on Livestock, Professor Attahiru Jega, traditional rulers, among others.
