Ms Emem Usoro, Deputy Governor (Corporate Services) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has urged graduands of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) to demonstrate discipline and excellence in their future endeavours.
Usoro made the call on Saturday after being conferred with an honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration by the university.
It was reported that the CBN official received the honorary degree during a combined convocation ceremony held at Ikot Akpaden in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
She advised the graduands not to be deterred by challenges and constraints they may encounter in the future.
The deputy governor encouraged them to rise above societal and cultural limitations to achieve their dreams. She also urged female graduands to remain humble, respectful, and resilient in pursuing their goals.
“Always prepare relentlessly, build the right competencies, and strive for excellence.
“Do not be afraid to aim higher. Women are already breaking barriers and making waves across different sectors.
“Speak up for yourself. Be heard—be bold and assertive—but do so with grace and humility. I look forward to celebrating with you as you break new ground in the near future,” Usoro said.
She pledged to contribute to the development of the university in appreciation of the honor bestowed on her.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. OtoAbasi Akpan, said the combined convocation covered the 2021/2022, 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025 academic sessions.
Akpan stated that the university graduated a total of 6,793 undergraduate and 746 postgraduate students.
He added that the institution has expanded from 14 to 17 faculties, while academic programmes have increased from 66 to 84.
“This deliberate expansion is driven by the need to respond to changing societal demands, emerging knowledge areas, and the realities of the modern labor market,” he said.
The vice-chancellor affirmed that the university would continue to pursue excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community service.
He, however, noted that the institution faces challenges in hostel accommodation, staff housing, research funding, and transportation facilities.
