President Bola Tinubu on Saturday said that Agriculture remains strategic in the nation’s fight against its diverse and deep-rooted, problems.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Director (Extension), the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Deola Lordbanjou, stated this on Saturday in Umuahia, Abia State on the occasion of the 12th convocation ceremony of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, MOUAU.
He added that this was why his government increased the number of agricultural universities in the country.
“This administration is aware of the unique role that quality education can play in developing men and women of character who are citizens dedicated to the service of their fatherland. Our problems as a nation are numerous, multi-faceted, and complicated. Good education is necessary to understand the complexity of the problems and develop innovative and effective strategies to address the socio-economic and political issues confronting our nation”, Tinubu stated.
Speaking also, Dr. Alex Otti, Abia State Governor declared his dedication to enhancing agricultural institutions and creating a supportive learning environment for students.
Governor Otti who was represented by his Deputy Engr Ikechukwu Emetu emphasized on the importance of agriculture and innovation in boosting the state’s economy and acknowledged the pivotal role as the future leaders and innovators will play in advancing this sectors .
He pointed out that his administration focuses on promoting entrepreneurship , vocational having research development , emphasizing that education extends beyond degrees into real word application
He commended Michael Okpara University of Agriculture for not only being a place of learning but also a hub of knowledge innovation and transformation that has significantly contributed to economic development of Abia state and beyond.
“I encourage you to be determined in chasing your dreams , uphold your belief and recognize the importance of ethical leadership”, Gov. Otti said as he congratulated all the graduands as they enter the new chapter of their lives
Earlier in his address, the Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, exposed that some of the main challenges institutions face include, endless industrial strike actions which continue to affect the calendar year,paucity of funds,lack of good access road.
He pleaded with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to do what they are supposed to do to resolve the unending problem which is almost becoming a cancer to education.
He thanked Gov. Otti for honouring the convocation with his presence and appreciated him for his kind responses to the needs of the University, adding, “we are happy with his Excellency for endorsing the title of the university land and we are waiting for the handover of the documents to the university soonest”.
The Vice Chancellor, also thanked the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Good Security, the Honourable Minister of Education and the Executive Secretary of the National University Commission and other Agencies of the government for collaborating with them .
Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor congratulated all the graduands for pulling through despite all hurdles and encouraged the students to remain major stakeholders in the education industry and the community.
Also the best graduating student, Mr. Paul Promise Chibuike, with a G.P of 4.92 from Biochemistry Department while delivering his speech, attributed his success to God, encouragement from his parents and loved one, his incredible lecturers for their unwavering dedication to impacting knowledge, the teamwork as students, and his resilience and determination to be the best.
The event featured presentation of awards to outstanding students and the event was well attended by Vice Chancellors and academicians from other tertiary institutions.
