President Bola Tinubu has underscored the pivotal role of universities in realizing his vision for a ‘new Nigeria’ during the 54th Convocation lecture at the University of Lagos. He urged academics to contribute to the nation’s transformation and outlines measures, including the student loan bill, to address educational challenges.
President Tinubu, represented by Minister of Education Tahir Mamman, reaffirmed commitment to supporting University of Lagos’ pursuit of excellence. Immediate steps taken include removing universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System and enacting the student loan bill to alleviate challenges from petroleum subsidy removal.
Tinubu stressed that universities are central to the attainment of a new Nigeria and all necessary changes must be in place for the desired transformation.
On student loans, he assured indigent students access to interest-free loans, emphasizing the government’s commitment to preventing school dropouts due to poverty. He said the aim is to redirect subsidy funds into public infrastructure, education, and social needs for a better quality of life.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of transnational education to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness globally.
President Tinubu extended congratulations to 17,464 graduands, highlighting three honorary doctorate awardees—historian Toyin Falola, Immunology Professor Phyllis Kanki, and former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Folasade Ogunsola outlined the university achievements, including attracting over N11 billion in research income and partnerships with Sahara Group. She noted innovations through Project I2M, benefiting 524 innovators and supporting 40 start-ups.
Conclusively, Tinubu congratulated outstanding graduates, emphasizing the transformative potential of education and research for Nigeria’s progress.
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