By Martina Enwefa
EFFURUN/Nigeria: As part of its second graduation ceremony, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, FUPR, Effurun, Delta State had honoured Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko with Honorary Doctorate Degree, just as the Nigerian, President Mohammadu Buhari had called on managements of Nigerian universities to avoid wastage in managing resources.
Speaking after unbehalf of other awardees, Ned Nwoko said it is an amazing moment standing on the front row of history to accept this prestigious honour, as he stated: ” To be recognised by the University is a badge of honour, seal of approval, power of confidence, acclamation of competence and celebration of social distinction.
Stating further that this it’s a lifelong privilege
“This is a lifelong privilege given the lofty essence of University. The idea of the University is not just the treasure of learning and knowledge. It confers the finest toga of human prestige, dignity and self assurance”.
He recounted his love for education and how he dared beyond the ordinary to acquire western education and exposure in England.
In addition, he stressed that such personal effort and conviction changed his orientation even as a fulfilling international legal practitioner; thereby spurring him to return to Nigeria in 1999 to serve his fatherland in politics and humanity.
Meanwhile, President Mohammadu Buhari, represented by Minister of State (Education), Prof. Anthony Onwuka, said government would no longer condone corruption in whatsoever guise.
“The very scarce resources that are made available must be judiciously utilised to give value to the system.”
” We assure the university system that the government is doing everything within the limit of its available resources to ensure the welfare of staff is adequately catered for to enhance productivity,” he said.
The University of Petroleum Resources Effurun was established in 1997 and resumed academic activities with 50 undergraduates in 1998; however, becoming the first premier university in Africa and 6th in the world.
At this second convocation ceremony holding on Saturday 27th April, 2019. The Chancellor of the University, HRH Alhaji Dr. Attahiru Mohammad Ahmad (the Emir of Zamfara), the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Zuru, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. A.O. Akii Ibhadode, including other eminent Nigerians attended the ceremony.
