From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Globally celebrated business leader and philanthropist, Valentine Ozigbo last weekend reignited the spirit of the New Nigeria Movement during his impactful address at the 4th Convocation Ceremony of Paul University, Awka, Anambra State.
Delivering the Convocation lecture titled, ‘Managing Private Universities in Nigeria, Prospects and Challenges’, Ozigbo, a 2021 Anambra Gubernatorial Candidate while reflecting on the essence of the New Nigeria Movement stressed the need for a collective responsibility and an undying hope noting that it “wasn’t merely a political campaign or a social cause.”
He noted that championing change and nurturing the home is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians. Elaborating on his assertion, he said, “It was a clarion call, a passionate plea, a youth-led revolution that captured our nation’s spirit and resonated across the globe”,
Ozigbo’s lecture explored the potential heights private institutions can achieve when there’s “a harmonious blend of vision, commitment, innovation, and community engagement”, as he called for the adoption of the global concept of Kaizen, continuous improvement.
Ozigbo’s heartfelt words came at a crucial time, as Nigeria awaits a significant Supreme Court judgment on the contested outcome of the February 2023 Presidential Election.
However, he was quick to remind attendees of the bigger picture when he said “Our journey does not end with a single verdict, nor does our commitment waver based on a solitary event,” he asserted.
Calling for unwavering hope paired with actionable efforts, Ozigbo noted, “Hope is the bedrock of change. But hope alone is not enough.” He further emphasised the long-term vision required, stating that “Creating the Nigeria we desire is not a sprint but a marathon.”
Drawing from the broader narrative of his speech, he reiterated, “For our private universities to rise and shine, to be the beacons of hope and knowledge we so desperately need, our nation must rise with them.”
Ozigbo concluded by saying that “rebuilding Nigeria is not a task for the few; it is a mandate for us all.”
During the convocation ceremony, Paul University handed out 388 first degrees and diplomas. Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), was installed as the Chancellor. Ozigbo was honoured with the Guest Lecturer Award even as he also donated N2 million to the institution.
Five notable Nigerians were awarded honourary doctorate degrees, namely, His Grace, Most Revd Maxwell S.C Aniekwenwa, who received it posthumously; Igwe Sir Ben Emeka JP, Oke-Ebo II of Umueri; Ejezie Emeka Rollas, the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria; Amaopusenibo Barr. Mike Epelle; and Dr Cyril Christopher Okechukwu.
Dignitaries in attendance at the event included Mr. Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party; Most Rev Prof Emmanuel Chukwuma, the Proprietor of the University; Most Rev Alexander Ibezim, Archbishop of the Province on the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, the Ag. Vice-Chancellor, Ven Prof Obiora Nwosu, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Prof Chinyere Stella Okunna and Prof Godwin Onu among others.
