Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, a renowned music legend, has urged Nigerian students to utilize their knowledge and skills to drive positive change and contribute to the country’s development. He made this statement at the signing-out ceremony of 79 students from the sixth graduating set of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, which took place at the Ebenezer Obey Music and Life Skills Institute, Abeokuta Centre, on Saturday.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of the graduates, who were drawn from various departments, including Accounting, Computer Science, Business Administration, and Mass Communication. Obey-Fabiyi emphasized the importance of reflecting the values of discipline, hard work, and service to humanity in their achievements. He also highlighted the centre’s objective of empowering young people and giving back to society through education and moral development.
Dr Lateef Mustapha, Director of the Centre for Part-Time and Professional Studies at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, described the graduation as a celebration of resilience, creativity, and lifelong learning. He noted that the affiliation between the university and the institute demonstrates that higher education should extend beyond classroom instruction to include moral discipline, entrepreneurship, and community service. Mustapha reminded the graduates that their success would be measured by the positive impact they make in society, rather than their grades.
Professor Sabiru Adesanya, former Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, commended the institute for its role in human capacity development and urged the graduates to remain worthy ambassadors of the institution. The director of the institute, Mr Adekunle Durosinmi, described the event as a milestone in the institute’s journey towards excellence, stressing that the growing number of graduates reflects the confidence students have in the centre’s academic and professional programmes.
The ceremony reinforced the importance of education and skill development in driving national growth and development. As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, they are expected to make a positive impact in their respective fields, contributing to the country’s progress and development. The event also highlighted the need for institutions to blend moral values with skill-based learning, preparing students for the challenges of the real world. With the institute’s commitment to sustaining high standards and expanding opportunities for students, it is likely that future generations of graduates will be equally equipped to make a meaningful difference in society.