Nigeria needs more individuals with a passion for change and strong leadership skills to improve its economic and political situation.
This was the message from the former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, during the graduation ceremony of Nexford University at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The theme of the event was “Lead the Change, Ignite the Future.”
In his speech, Mr. Obi emphasised that for Africa to reach its full potential, Nigeria, as the continent’s most populous country, must take the lead by developing its socio-economic landscape, setting an example for other African nations.
He pointed out that Nigeria possesses a steadily growing population, favorable weather, rich local cuisine, and abundant natural resources, making it well-positioned to thrive among the nations of the world.
However, he stressed that these opportunities can only be fully harnessed by passionate, focused leaders who can guide the country toward progress and prosperity.
“Leadership is not rocket science. It involves the right character, competence, and compassion. You need the ability to make the right decisions, care for others, and put the less privileged first,” Obi said.
“What we lack today are leaders who care about the people. We need the right leadership to make the country more productive.”
Obi also acknowledged that leadership and change are challenging, but urged the graduates to take responsibility for creating a better future. “Ask questions, ignite change, and use your knowledge to bring about societal transformation. Don’t be part of the problems; be the solution,” he said.
Speaking on the importance of online education in Nigeria, Obi noted, “Education is the key to empowerment, producing good leaders, and developing society. We must do everything we can to bring more people into the literacy net.”
Technology Revolution
In his welcome address, the CEO and founder of Nexford University, Mr. Fadl Al Tarzi, highlighted how technological advancements have significantly increased the efficiency of daily operations.
He urged the graduates to leverage technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), to improve their skills and thrive in an ever-changing world.
“Nexford University has offered AI specialization for the past five years, integrating it into all our programs. Today, nearly 40% of our graduates have studied AI,” Al Tarzi explained.
“AI may displace many jobs, but Nigeria, with its large market, can capitalize on AI to solve problems, accelerate research and development, and connect Nigerian talent to the global stage.”
Al Tarzi noted that the graduates had completed a range of programs, including the BBA, MBA, Masters in Digital Transformation, Masters in Data Analytics, and Masters in Entrepreneurship. About 1,200 graduates, mostly from West Africa and particularly Nigeria, participated in the ceremony, despite not being able to travel to Washington, DC, for the graduation.
Leadership Quality
In her remarks, former Nigerian Education Minister Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili stressed the importance of education for Nigeria’s youth and Africa’s future.
She explained that key qualities of leadership, such as good character, competence, and capacity, will help the graduates excel in the global workforce.
“By 2050, nearly 85% of the increase in the global workforce will come from young Africans,” Ezekwesili said. “
This makes education, especially in fields like AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, and communication, crucial for preparing these young people to compete globally.”
Democratising Education
The Country Director of Nexford University in Nigeria, Mrs. Oghogho Inneh, described the university as a game changer in higher education, bringing online learning to students’ homes and enabling them to earn U.S. degrees without leaving the country.
“This approach is transforming higher education in Nigeria,” she added.
Former Nigerian Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mr. Okey Enelamah, and Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Innovation, Mr. Tubosun Alake, echoed the importance of technology in driving societal transformation.
They encouraged the graduates to apply their knowledge to solve problems and contribute to positive change.
Others at the event underscored the idea that education should not be reserved for just a few but must be democratised to empower more people and drive economic and social mobility.
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