The Chancellor of Achievers University, Owo, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, CFR, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its reforms in the education and security sectors, describing them as critical pillars for national development, economic growth and renewal.
Dogara made the remarks while delivering the Convocation Address at the 16th Convocation Ceremony of Achievers University, titled “Rethinking National Security for Sustainable Peace, Development and National Renewal.”
Addressing graduating students, parents, academics and distinguished guests, Dogara praised the Federal Government’s efforts to expand access to tertiary education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that the initiative has opened opportunities for thousands of young Nigerians to pursue higher education regardless of their financial background.
According to him, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to investing in human capital and creating pathways for young Nigerians to attain their educational aspirations.
“For too long, a cruel arithmetic decided the fate of gifted young Nigerians. Their talent was sufficient, but their money was not,” Dogara said.
He expressed optimism that the benefits of the student loan programme would eventually extend to students in private tertiary institutions, thereby widening access to quality higher education across the country.
The former Speaker also lauded the Federal Government for resolving long-standing welfare concerns affecting university lecturers, describing the improved remuneration package for academics as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s educational system.
Speaking on national security, Dogara emphasized that security remains the foundation upon which every nation’s prosperity is built, stressing that education, agriculture, commerce and investment can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace and stability.
He acknowledged the Tinubu administration’s sustained efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities through enhanced military operations, intelligence coordination and increased recruitment into the nation’s security agencies.
Dogara noted that recent measures aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces, expanding police recruitment and deploying forest guards demonstrate the government’s commitment to restoring security across the country.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, he urged Nigerians to support ongoing efforts and recognize the progress being made.
“Our responsibility is neither to dismiss progress nor to exaggerate it. It is to recognize what is working, strengthen it, identify what is failing and demand better results,” he stated.
He called for greater investment in modern technology, intelligence gathering, surveillance systems and institutional collaboration to further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Dogara also stressed the strong link between security, economic development and access to finance, noting that sustainable growth requires a stable and secure environment where businesses can thrive, investments can grow and citizens can pursue productive livelihoods without fear.
The NCGC Board Chairman further emphasized that development initiatives in education, agriculture, infrastructure, industry and entrepreneurship remain important components of long-term peace and national prosperity.
He charged all stakeholders, including government institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups and citizens, to play active roles in promoting national unity and security.
Describing universities as centres for innovation and nation-building, Dogara urged graduates to deploy their education, skills and talents in service to humanity and national development.
“If you become a lawyer, serve justice. If you become a doctor, serve life. If you become an engineer, build what our country needs. If you become an entrepreneur, create jobs and opportunities for others,” he advised.
The former Speaker expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, stating that the nation’s resilience, leadership and human capital provide a strong foundation for continued progress.
“A secure Nigeria is possible. A peaceful Nigeria is necessary. A free and prosperous Nigeria must remain our common mission,” he said.
He congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to become agents of positive change, reminding them that the true value of education lies not merely in acquiring knowledge but in applying it to solve problems and improve society.
The convocation ceremony attracted members of the University’s Governing Council, management, staff, alumni, parents and several dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class and reaffirm the institution’s commitment to producing future leaders.
Dogara Applauds Tinubu’s Education, Security Reforms at Achievers Convocation
