By Aluta News
April 20, 2024
President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday at the combined 38th, 39th, 40th and 41st convocation ceremony of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, emphasised the collective responsibility of citizens to improve Nigeria’s educational sector.
Represented by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, Tinubu underscored education as the cornerstone of his administration.
The president urged the citizens to harness Nigeria’s abundant human and material resources to support governmental efforts in boltering education.
Tinubu said, “In alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda, our administration is committed to enhancing funding and support for educational institutions.
“Our priority is to enhance the quality, safety, and financial stability of our universities for greater relevance and effectiveness.”
The president reiterated his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management, emphasising the need for the judicious use of public resources.
Additionally, Tinubu pledged to prioritise equality, inclusiveness, and infrastructure development for national progress.
He commended the University’s Chancellor, the Obama of Lagos, for his contributions to institutional advancement and acknowledged the Sultan of Sokoto for his role in fostering peace and development in the Sokoto Sultanate Council.
Tinubu congratulated the university’s management, faculties and the graduating students for their achievements, applauding the recipients of honorary degrees and emeritus professorships.
In his remarks, Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of the state pledged more collaborative efforts with the university in renewable energy, education, and societal development.
He assured the citizens of accessible quality education and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to student welfare.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Institution, Prof. Lawal Bilbis, announced a total of 22,932 graduands, with 4,288 set to receive various higher degrees and diplomas.
According to him, they include 296 doctoral degrees, 1,322 master’s degrees, and 2,670 Post-graduate diplomas.
Bilbis expressed gratitude to the university’s Visitor, the Federal Government, various agencies, the National Assembly, and catchment area state governments.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ceremony featured the award of honorary degrees to sone notable individuals, including Alhaji Nasir Ado-Bayero, Emir of Bichi, Prof. Toyin Falola, Sheikh Mallam Muhammadu Na-Mallam Boyi, and Alhaji Sani Zangon-Daura.
Additionally, Emeritus Professor titles were conferred upon by the university to Prof. Hamidu Ahmed and Prof. Abubakar Sambo.
NAN