President Bola Tinubu has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening universities, particularly in securing opportunities to enhance their mandates and positioning them as leaders in the energy sector.
Speaking at the 4th convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State, Tinubu stressed the need for collaboration in empowering FUPRE to become a global hub for energy education and innovation.
The president, who was represented by the Vice-Chancellor of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Prof. Emmanuel Adigio, urged the graduating students to recognize the critical role they play in shaping the future of Nigeria and Africa.
He said, “Graduates of today should note that Nigeria and Africa are looking up to the youths to lead the transformation of our societies and as innovators who would develop sustainable energy solutions.”
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of FUPRE, Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, noted that the event also marked the conclusion of his five-year tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the university.
He announced that a total of 3,369 students had graduated, comprising 2,683 undergraduates and 686 postgraduates, with 51 earning first-class honours. He also revealed that six distinguished individuals would receive honorary degrees in recognition of their outstanding contributions to society.
Also speaking, the Chancellor of FUPRE, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, commended the university’s staff and students for their efforts in raising the institution’s standards since its establishment in 2007.
