Emeritus Professor

TWENTY-FIRST CONVOCATION: AN ADDRESS BY THE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROFESSOR NIMI BRIGGS ON FRIDAY, 4TH MARCH, 2005

Let me start by observing a well-known African tradition — that of welcoming visitors and ensuring their comfort first and foremost before any discussion on matters of the moment. So I extend, on behalf of the University, a very warm welcome to all of you who are neither staff nor students but are here in connection with today’s convocation event. The university feels highly honoured that you are able to set aside everything else in order to be with us today. There is no doubt that this forum which has brought together such an array of men and women in very colourful as well as ceremonial outfits, is an important event. Indeed every university Convocation is, and today’s — the 21st in the series in this university — is no exception.

A university Convocation is a crowning glory, a harvest of some sort, a reward event, a public recognition and commendation, at which students who have undergone course of studies, and have acquired knowledge and skill, are formally awarded their degrees. Expectedly therefore, it is accompanied by a lot of fanfare, jubilation and merrymaking. The carnival-like atmosphere that is already pervasive in the campus confirms this position.

The Graduands

2,568 of you, who until recently were students of this university, will receive your degrees today. Of this number:

1. 176 will be graduating from the Faculty of Humanities.

2. 381 from Social Sciences.

3. 243 from Science.

4. 720 from Education.

5. 465 from Management Sciences.

6. 371 from Engineering and

7. 212 from the College of Health Sciences.

While congratulating you most heartily on your achievements, I wish to remind you of the responsibility your success places on you.

Obtaining university education is a privilege which many seek but are not as fortunate as you are. In awarding you these degrees, the Senate of the university has guaranteed your character. What this means is that in your societal interactions and the utilisation of the skills and knowledge you have acquired, people will watch out for those rare attributes which have made this university from which you are convoking today, very special in recent times. You must conduct your affairs in such a manner that all persons will see you as responsible citizens of Nigeria. At no time must your actions bring shame and reproach to the university. Above all, I implore you to join any of the branches of the university’s alumni association and through that medium I urge you to contribute to the well being of your alma mater.

Once again, I thank all of you who have found time to be with us today. As you leave this arena after the Convocation Ceremony to commence the well-deserved celebrations, I felicitate with you as your joy and happiness are well-deserved and earned.

May you have journey mercies to your various destinations. I thank you for your attention.

TWENTY-FIRST CONVOCATION: AN ADDRESS BY THE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROFESSOR NIMI BRIGGS ON FRIDAY, 4TH MARCH, 2005