By Our Correspondent

National News – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to education stability and development, as the University of Abuja—now renamed Yakubu Gowon University—conferred honorary degrees on three distinguished Nigerians during its combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremony held on April 18, 2026, in Abuja.

Representing the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, the Permanent Secretary, Abel Enitan, stated that the government remains focused on investing in infrastructure, improving staff welfare, and ensuring uninterrupted academic progress.

He explained that the intervention in the university’s past leadership crisis was necessary to restore order, maintain credibility, and protect students’ academic future.

According to him, education is central to national growth, innovation, and long-term stability in Nigeria.

At the ceremony, the institution graduated 4,573 postgraduate students from the March 2024 to 2026 academic sessions.

The honourees—Dr Paul Odili, Prof Yusuf Ali (SAN), and Emmanuel Iza—were recognised for their contributions to society, with Odili receiving a Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa).

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, noted that the awards reflect excellence, service, and impact across various sectors.

He urged graduates to embrace integrity, discipline, and national service as they advance in their careers.

Speaking after the event, Odili described the recognition as both a personal milestone and a call to greater responsibility.

He pledged to support the university’s development and collaborate with its leadership to address institutional challenges within the next two years.

The week-long convocation, which began on April 10, featured academic exhibitions, a climate dialogue, drug awareness programmes, and a lecture on artificial intelligence in fintech, highlighting the university’s focus on innovation and societal impact.