Lagos: President Bola Tinubu expressed his administration's mission to foster a united Nigeria where every citizen can dream, work, and thrive. He made this statement during the 55th Convocation Ceremonies of the University of Lagos, where he was represented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity as Nigeria's greatest strength and highlighted diversity as a source of incredible richness. He urged Nigerians to harness this diversity, work together to overcome challenges, and seize opportunities to build a nation everyone can be proud of. The President assured that the Federal Government is focused on building infrastructure to connect cities and enhance security across the country.
President Tinubu congratulated the graduates and honorary awardees, reaffirming his administration's commitment to creating an environment conducive to realizing their dreams. The convocation ceremony honored notable individuals, including Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation; Mr. Fola Adeola, Co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc.; and Mr. Kola Adesina, Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, with honorary doctorate degrees.
A total of 16,590 students received various degrees at the week-long event, with Mr. Aliyu Gafaar emerging as the best graduating student in Business Administration, while Mr. Akintoye Alaba had the best Ph.D. thesis in science and overall best Ph.D. thesis. Ladipo Niniola was recognized for having the best Ph.D. thesis in humanities.
Tinubu urged the graduates and awardees to illuminate the path for future generations, expressing confidence in their potential to make Nigeria proud. He highlighted the University of Lagos's role in equipping students with the tools for success and encouraged them to carry the spirit of excellence forward.
Earlier, UNILAG's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, highlighted the institution's commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. She noted that six visually impaired students graduated this year, with Messrs Damilare Adebakin and Samuel Badekale achieving a perfect 5.0 cumulative grade point average.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also praised UNILAG's contributions to society, emphasizing the institution's role in producing individuals of character and integrity. He acknowledged Dr. Adetoun Akintoye, a Lagos State indigene and this year's valedictorian, for her groundbreaking research addressing food insecurity.