Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has charged Nigerian graduates to move beyond academic achievements and actively deploy their knowledge and skills toward solving the country’s pressing challenges.
Speaking on Tuesday at the postgraduate convocation ceremony of Babcock University in Ikenne Local Government Area, the governor emphasized that education must produce innovators and solution providers, not just degree holders. The event also saw him honoured with the institution’s Award of Good Governance.
Delivering a lecture themed “Breaking New Grounds,” Abiodun described universities as critical institutions that go beyond imparting knowledge to shaping minds, refining values, and preparing individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
“The true test of education is not just in what you know, but in how you apply that knowledge to improve lives and advance humanity,” he stated.
Education, Character, and National Development
The governor stressed that while academic excellence is important, it must be balanced with integrity and moral responsibility. According to him, competence without character poses risks to society, urging graduates to embody both intellectual and ethical strength.
He noted that Nigeria’s future depends on graduates who can combine innovation with integrity, especially in an era shaped by artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and digital transformation.
Ogun’s Education Reforms
Highlighting his administration’s efforts, Abiodun pointed to ongoing reforms under the Ogun REHAB Initiative, which has improved infrastructure across public schools. He added that over 6,000 teachers have been recruited through the OgunTeach Programme to enhance the quality of education in the state.
According to the governor, these initiatives reflect a broader vision of building an education system where research drives enterprise and graduates are equipped to compete globally.
Rewarding Academic Excellence
In a show of support for outstanding performance, Abiodun announced cash rewards for top-performing students:
₦1.5 million for the best Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) student
₦2 million for the best Master’s graduate
₦2.5 million for the best PhD graduate
₦2.5 million for the overall best undergraduate student
University Commendation and Call for Civic Engagement
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Afolarin Olatunde Oyewole, said the institution remains committed to producing globally competitive graduates equipped with knowledge, discipline, and character.
He revealed that the convocation celebrated 183 PhD graduates and over 2,000 postgraduate students, all trained to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Prof. Oyewole also encouraged students and graduates to participate actively in elections, noting that sustainable development depends on electing capable and responsible leaders.
Recognition for Leadership
The highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of the Award of Good Governance on Governor Abiodun, acknowledging his administration’s commitment to development and educational advancement in Ogun State.
Also honoured at the event were Oluwatoyin Taiwo and Isiaq Kunle Salako, who were among recipients of doctoral degrees.
The ceremony underscored a central message: education must go beyond certificates, serving instead as a catalyst for innovation, leadership, and national transformation.
