LAGOS/Nigeria: Nexford University (NXU) witnessed a heartfelt and inspiring graduation ceremony as the Class of 2023 bid farewell to their academic journey. The event, graced by notable figures, saw Tonye Cole, co-founder, and former group executive director of the Sahara Group, and Obiageli Ezekwesili, former minister of education, delivering powerful messages of resilience and the transformative power of education.
In his keynote address, Tonye Cole urged the graduates to embrace challenges and not fear failure, emphasizing that every success story is built upon setbacks and second chances. He encouraged them, saying, “Do not be afraid to fail, even when you do, start again, try again, and retrace your steps and be courageous for every success story has stories to tell.”
Obiageli Ezekwesili, a board member of NXU, highlighted the crucial role of academic institutions like Nexford in addressing human capital deficiencies in Nigeria. She praised NXU as a global institution that equips students with 21st-century skills and stressed the need for more graduates like them to drive inclusive prosperity. Ezekwesili stated, “If we increase our gross domestic product and we spread the sources of our GDP, what we will have is inclusive prosperity, so we must have graduates of this kind from as many institutions as possible.”
Fadl Al Tarzi, the CEO of Nexford University, commended the dedication of Nigerian learners at the institution and encouraged the graduates to ascend to leadership positions and become ambassadors of Nigerian talent, making a lasting impact on the world. Al Tarzi emphasized, “Nigerians in the United States are, on average, twice as educated as the average American. It is time for you to ascend to leadership, redefine perceptions, and engrave your marks on societies, whether here in Nigeria or beyond your borders.”
The valedictorian of the Class of 2023, James Ogo-Oluwa Osinowo, shared his personal journey and praised Nexford University for instilling resilience, teamwork, and perseverance in its students. He celebrated the institution for exposing students to endless possibilities and opportunities.
Other awardees included Adeshile Oluwabusayo for Best Peer Mentor in BBA (Undergraduate Degree), Monsuru Adebayo Popoola for Best Peer Mentor in MBA (Graduate Degree), Daniel Oreofe for Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, and Sonter Samuel James for Outstanding Brand Ambassador.
The graduation ceremony at Nexford University served as a powerful testament to the resilience, dedication, and potential of the Class of 2023, leaving them inspired and ready to embark on their promising futures.
