Education
THE Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has conferred honourary doctorate degrees on the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, and governors Hope Uzodinma of Imo and Babangida Zulum of Borno.
The recipients were decorated on Saturday in Owerri at the institution’s 36th convocation for their outstanding impact on the lives of the people
The FUTO Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nnenna Oti, said that Tinubu was honoured for her humanitarian services and dedication to education across the country.
“I extend my felicitations to the three distinguished Nigerians who have been conferred with the University’s honourary doctorate awards for their invaluable contributions and services to our nation and humanity.
“Mrs Tinubu, outside of her political responsibilities, established NGOs aimed at youth development, girl-child education and women empowerment.
“Mrs Tinubu’s impact transcends Nigeria, she is a quintessential role model,” the VC said.
Oti further encouraged Nigerians to always appreciate their leaders and love the nation, saying Nigeria needs to transit from a developing economy to a fully advanced and developed country.
“FUTO has since its inception risen to this challenge and has over the years, delivered on its core mandate by producing top notch graduates in diverse disciplines.
The first lady thanked Oti and the university management for the honour and congratulated Uzodinma and Zulum.
She said that her role as the President’s wife and exposure to some African and western countries had increased her love for patriotism in her dealings and interactions, especially on environmental preservation.
“I want to charge this generation to own Nigeria in such a way that it will become a worthy inheritance for themselves and future generations.
“We cannot deny the effect of global warming, even though we have been quite lucky in Nigeria. I am playing my part as much as I can, and I urge you to join the journey of taking Nigeria to its Eldorado.
“To this end, I plan to launch the “Green Club”, to drive environmental awareness, particularly the proper disposal of plastic waste across the country.
“I look forward to working with some of you in the future. Today, with my love and support for education, I have donated the sum of N50million as an Endowment Fund for the overall best graduating female student of FUTO.”
Uzodinma pledged his commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s led administration for its dedication, foresight and people-oriented programmes.
He further promised to take up the sponsorship of one of the school projects.
Zulum, while appreciating the school authority, also promised to strengthen ties with the state and the VC to further develop the institution.
The dignitaries at the event included top government officials, traditional and religious leaders, and governors wives.(NAN)
7th December, 2024.
C.E.
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