The National Vice Chairman (North Central) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator Tunde Ogbeha, has cautioned that Nigeria’s future could be imperilled if governments fail to prioritise education and address insecurity undermining learning environments.
Speaking at the 21st Convocation Ceremony of Benson Idahosa University in Benin City, Edo State, where he received an honorary doctorate degree, Ogbeha said only qualitative education can secure the nation’s future.
“It is only qualitative education that can guarantee the future of our children and nation. We must therefore consider it a task that the future leaders receive the best in education,” he told the audience.
He urged federal and state authorities to increase support for public and private universities, while addressing threats posed by banditry, kidnappings, and herder–farmer clashes, which he said were choking educational progress.
“The nation’s greatest resources has never been in the oil reserve or her mineral wealth; it has always been in her people,” Ogbeha added. “Every investment in education, every commitment to developing human capital, and every effort to build institutions that work for all citizens brings us closer to realising the Nigeria of our dreams.”
The ceremony drew several dignitaries, including ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark; former Edo State Governor, Lucky Igbinedion; and Chairman of Mainstream Energy Solution, Colonel Sanni Bello (rtd).
Turning to the graduands, Ogbeha commended their perseverance and urged them to become innovators and leaders ready to confront national challenges.
“Our nation needs innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will tackle issues like unemployment, climate change, food security, and good governance,” he said. “You are not too young to lead. Go out and be the world changers.”
