President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in Nigeria during the 9th Convocation ceremony of the Federal University, Dutsinma, held on Saturday. His remarks came at a time when security challenges are prominent concerns for the nation.
President Tinubu, represented by Prof. Abdulkarim Mohammed, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Dutste, emphasized that while the government plays a crucial role, tackling insecurity is a collective responsibility. He urged citizens to actively engage in the fight against crime by providing security operatives with vital information.
“I want to assure all Nigerians that the government is fully committed to combat and defeat all acts of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities in Nigeria,” Tinubu stated. He further encouraged citizens to assist by reporting suspicious activities, saying, “However, security is a collective responsibility. I urge all Nigerians to join hands with the government.”
In addition to discussing security, the President called upon the nation’s youth to take advantage of the Nigerian Loan Scheme, which has allocated over N70 billion to support young entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to empower young people and foster economic growth.
During his address, Tinubu also highlighted the importance of education, urging graduates to act as ambassadors for their institution and the country. He reminded university lecturers of their vital role in shaping the future, advocating for the use of modern teaching methods and Information Communication Technology.
Prof. Armaya’u Bichi, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsinma, outlined significant challenges facing the institution, notably insecurity. “As we are aware, the security situation in and around Dutsin-Ma in recent times has made us abandon the main campus and crowd ourselves at the take-off campus,” he said, emphasizing the inadequacy of facilities for the university’s numerous faculties and students.
King Jaja of Opobo, Chancellor of the university and Chairman of the Convocation, also addressed the issues at hand. He reiterated that the institution is working to improve its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through various initiatives. “The University has established a Consultancy Unit, Micro Finance Bank, Pure Water Factory, Staff Primary and Secondary Schools, and Printing Press to boost our IGR,” he announced.
Douglas acknowledged the persistent security challenges that have disrupted activities on the main campus. He stated, “I will be failing in my responsibility as the Chancellor of this great university if I do not draw your attention to the security challenges bedevilling the university.”
The Chancellor expressed concern over how these security issues have forced the university to conduct events like the Convocation at an inadequate take-off campus. “All activities of the university, including this Convocation Ceremony, are at the take-off campus, which is grossly inadequate in both structures and facilities for staff and students,” he said.
In a celebratory tone, the university announced that a total of 297 postgraduate students graduated during the ceremony, including 18 Ph.D. graduates, 226 with Master’s degrees, and 53 with Professional Diplomas. Additionally, out of 4,282 undergraduate students, notable achievements included 44 first-class honors and 872 second-class upper degrees.
