Bola Tinubu has urged graduates of Nigerian universities to show patriotism and resist the temptation to seek better opportunities abroad.
This message was part of his speech at the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremony of the University of Uyo on Saturday.
According to him, Nigeria can make its own pastures just as green, if not greener.
Represented by the vice chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Owunari Georgewill, Tinubu encouraged the graduates to become agents of change by using their knowledge and skills to address societal challenges.
“As you go into the world, I urge you to be agents of change, using your knowledge and tools to uplift our society and contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria and the world at large.
“I appeal to your sense of patriotism, imploring you to avoid the temptation of hurrying to look for greener pastures outside.
“We can make our pastures equally as green or even greener than those of other climes,” he said.
Tinubu stated that his administration is implementing measures to lessen the economic burden on citizens, particularly the vulnerable.
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He pointed out that, despite establishing numerous learning centres across tertiary institutions, many research findings still end up unused on the authors’ shelves.
Tinubu urged universities to take the lead in promoting practical, demand-driven research that improves lives.
The university’s pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council, Zubairu Abdullah, thanked the president for introducing the student loan scheme and other reforms in the education sector.
However, he raised concerns about land encroachment and land grabbing by neighbouring communities and appealed to the president to construct a perimeter fence to address the issue.
In his goodwill message, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, who was awarded a doctorate degree in political science from the university, described the honour as a testament to perseverance and belief in the limitless possibilities that come with faith.
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