UMUNYA, Nigeria — Valentine Ozigbo, the Labour Party frontline aspirant in the 2025 Anambra State Governorship election, has advocated for true citizenship in the Country.
Mr. Ozigbo gave an insightful and inspiring convocation lecture on Friday, May 17, and today, Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the 7th to 12th Tansian University combined Convocation he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree Award in Public Administration (honoris causa). He was also
appointed member board of Governing council of the prestigious Tansian University.
Speaking on the topic “Redeeming Ourselves: A Call For True Citizenship.” Mr. Ozigbo, a multiple award-winning global CEO and a natural crowd-puller, fervently championed the need for true citizenship in Nigeria.
In his convocation speech to the large audience, Ozigbo started by expressing gratitude to the mammoth crowd. He said “Today is unique, not just for Tansian University but also for each of you graduates and your families. The excitement among the academic faculty and administrators is palpable. Their tireless dedication has made this day possible. As you stand on the threshold of a new chapter, I am thrilled to be part of this joyous occasion.
“We celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, determination and the beginning of a journey filled with promise and potential. Each of you, as graduates of Tansian University, holds within you the power to shape the future, to lead with courage and compassion, and to make a difference in the world.
“Your education and experiences have equipped you with the tools to challenge the status quo, to work for change, and to
create a better future. So, as we stand together on this momentous day, let us embrace the opportunities ahead with hearts full of hope and minds set on greatness.
“I remember the feeling of accomplishment, the sense of pride in my parents’ eyes, and the anticipation of the future. I understand the emotional weight of this moment. Your hard work and resilience have paid off. You have made your parents, families, and communities immensely proud. Congratulations to all of you,” the multiple award-winning global CEO added.
Ozigbo, elucidated the need for true citizenship in Nigeria. He declared that a call for true citizenship is about recognising our past mistakes, taking responsibility for them, and committing to a better future.
Speaking at the well-attended event, Ozigbo elevated the spirit of the graduates and also his foremost target of impact, the Nigerian youths at large, he stated that faithful citizenship is more than a title; it is a call to action.
While advising the graduates of Tansian University, he said; “You are equipped not just with knowledge and talents but also with responsibility. You must harness your knowledge, skills, and collective will to build a nation that reflects our highest ideals. We are blessed with vast natural and human resources, but these blessings come with the responsibility to steward them wisely and justly.
“Today, I call on each of you, as graduates of Tansian University, to be the torchbearers of this new vision. I urge you all to embrace your role as active citizens and work tirelessly to create a society that honours dignity, justice, and equality. By doing so, you will not only redeem yourselves but also pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come. Your role in nation-building is not just crucial; it is your purpose to positively impact society and contribute to the progress of our
nation,” Ozigbo urged the students and also the Nigerian youths.
Concluding the lecture, Valentine Ozigbo echoed a call for true citizenship in Nigeria with a story from Judson Cornelius’s book, ‘A Feast of Laughter,’ which annotated that not all of us leave university as award winners, but we all deserve recognition; if not now, then later. So, go out, shine, and reclaim your recognition. As an entrepreneur who operates at the top in various sectors, “I assure you that hard work and patience are always rewarded. The giver of every good thing is just God who rewards us according to our efforts and His mercies. Without him, we can achieve nothing,” Ozigbo concluded.
The Ceremony’s zenith was the presentation of the Honorary Doctorate Award of Public Administration to Mr. Valentine Ozigbo and other awardees included Chief. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Okonkwo (Bishop Okonkwo), Sir. Kingsley Udechukwu, Barr. Adaora Vivian Offor, High Chief Simon Egbogu, and Barr. Prophet Ejike Nwachukwu for their various outstanding contribution to the society and human capital development.
Expressing his gratitude to the University leadership for the recognition, the celebrated global CEO said: “This accolade holds immense significance for me, I am profoundly grateful for this honour. Thank you.”
Drawing a diverse crowd of scholars and dignatries, which include H.E Mr. Peter Obi, highly represented by Prof. Stella Okunna, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paul’s University, and Barr. Valentine Obienyem; Senator Victor Umeh, the newly installed Chancellor of Tansian University; Prof. Theresa Obiekezie, Pro-Chancellor; Prof. Eugene Nwadialor, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Charles Chike Onochie, Deputy Vice Chancellor; Rev. Daniel Ikechukwu Igwilo, Registrar, Engr. Dr. Nnochiri Ifeoma, Assistant Professor Communications Engineering, Umudike; Dr. Chizaram Ogbuji, Deputy Rector (Admin) Abia State Polytechnic, Aba; Prof. Charles Nweke, Director School of General Studies Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, highly representing the Vice Chancellor Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Prof. U. A. Ibiam, DVC Evangel University, Akaeze, representing the VC Prof I. U. Kalu; Dr. Uche Enyegbu, Ag Rector Federal Polytechnic, Oko and many others.
Some political leaders that accompanied Ozigbo to the event include, Hon. Peter Okoye, Labour party Anambra State Chairman, Chief Sunday Ezeobiora (Okpataozuora), Chief Tony Offiah (Akajiugo), Chief Chukwuemeka Ikegwuogu (Agu Ji Egbe of Alor) and other notable members of the VCO Foundation.
