President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated the commitment of his administration to uninterrupted academic calendar in Nigerian Universities, particularly those owned by the Federal Government, warning that they would no allow closure of institutions of learning to happen again.
The President, who spoke on Tuesday in Ilorin at the 39th convocation ceremonies of the University of Ilorin through the Minister of State, Hon. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, therefore, appealed to the staff of the nation’s Universities to always give peace a chance.
He said: “Our universities, just as the entire nation itself, need peace to ensure prosperity. Gone were the days when Universities would be closed down over issues that could be resolved through constructive engagements. No one gains anything from the closure of institutions of learning. We have grown beyond that and we should not return to that path. We would not allow that to happen again. Our universities should always be open for continuous quality teaching, research and community service to flourish.
“We would, therefore, ensure that the Federal Government and our various universities enjoy a new form of good and positive relationship in the interest of the nation and humanity. We would ensure that this fraternity is sustained through honest and consistent open engagement between the government on one side, and the Universities on the other.
“It was in this regard that 2009 Re-negotiation Committee between Federal Government and Universities based Associations and Unions under the leadership of Dr. Yayale Ahmed CFR was inaugurated. Furthermore as part of efforts to sustain this, we have effected the payment of four months of the previously withheld salaries of academic staff of universities.
“I have also directed the payment of the withheld salaries of the non-teaching staff of the universities. This was purposely done to show the magnanimity of the present administration, despite the activation of the principle of ‘no work no pay’ rule.
“In addition, the Federal Government has also directed that the payment of salaries of university staff members be removed from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) forthwith. This is in response to the consistent pleas of the University trade unions. We will ensure that this removal is effected without further delay.”
President Tinubu acknowledged that the country is currently witnessing critical economic and security challenges, adding that they are surmountable as the government is doing its best to overcome the challenges.
He said: “The future of our nation depends on what we, the citizens, make of the current situation. As young people imbued with energy, intelligence, intellect, integrity, and courage, the nation needs you and your contributions. Your determination and disposition to these issues will enable us to overcome our present challenges and build a nation we can all be proud of.
“The Federal Government has begun the disbursement of student loans to tertiary institutions to cushion the effects of the current economic situation. Students of the University of Ilorin are not left out among the beneficiaries of this loan scheme. I am happy to inform you that the Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) has come to stay to provide opportunities and access for students to learn with ease and pay back later. I, therefore, urge every student to take advantage of this privilege to better their lots.”
To the graduands, he said: “As you
step into the real world, the onus is on you to contribute your quota to the greatness of this country. Remember that your existence will only be meaningful if you make positive impacts.”
Tinubu applauded the University of Ilorin for its accomplishments in national and international competitions, and for being awarded the Best Federal University in ICT Integration by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms.
In his speech, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Ilorin, Surv. Abiodun Aluko, called on the graduating students to apply the knowledge they have gained for the betterment of society, while lauding the institution for maintaining its position as the most sought-after institution in Nigeria.
In his speech, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, stated that the university has produced outstanding Nigerians who have contributed immensely to the nation, including Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, Nollywood star, Femi Adebayo, Seun Okinbaloye of Channels TV and Lukman Shobowale, a Real Estate mogul.
Egbewole said education should be regarded as a powerful force for positive change expected to equip individuals to challenge existing norms and advocate progress, charging the graduands to continue to seek for knowledge, learn more, unlearn and relearn.
“This degree in itself is not the end but a comfortable ground to attain and compete globally,” he added.
In his speech, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, while congratulating the graduands, said: “This great
closure of your journey on this campus opens a new chapter in your lives as you explore a new world of challenges and great possibilities.”
Noting that education is the foundation of any thriving society, Governor AbdulRazaq reminded the graduands that they have been
equipped with the tools to contribute meaningfully to the development of Nigeria, and
beyond, urging them to be drivers of positive change, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
“Embrace the challenges before you, and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Surely, with
strong commitment and determination you will excel in your chosen careers,” he admonished.
“Our administration remains committed to youth development. Our goal has been to create an enabling environment for success through education, innovation,
creativity, healthcare, tourism and entrepreneurship investments.
Kwara State is your home; together, we can build a prosperous future.
“We urge you to shun any social vices that may stall your
progress and tarnish your images,” Governor AbdulRazaq admonished.