…As Otedola becomes second Chancellor
Young people have been urged to inculcate integrity and moral probity in seeking greatness, as their journey to excellence must be guided by ethical conduct and foundations of humility in becoming the best version of themselves, personally and professionally. The charge was given by Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos and Proprietor, Augustine University, AUI, at the 5th convocation ceremony of the institution, held recently at the Convocation Hall, Ilara-Epe, Lagos. Addressing the graduating students, Archbishop Martins said the concept of excellence is a path every graduate needs to pursue relentlessly in order to become the best version of themselves.
Urging the graduands to be creative and open to new ideas, the proprietor noted that excellence does not often follow well-beaten paths, but often stems from innovation. He reminded them that true leadership is not about raw exercise of power and authority, but about serving others as Christ instructs, and inspiring them to attain greater heights. The Archbishop said the idea of humble beginnings echos the truth that true greatness is not one giant leap, but a step by step, gradual ascent with humility as cornerstone in relating with others, leading to greatness and excellence. He said the pursuit of excellence is a lifelong endeavour; a journey that requires commitment, resilience, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the world.
In his address, Prof. Christopher Odetunde, Vice Chancellor, AUI urged parents to give quality time in teaching their children fundamental moral values, so they (children) would have the wisdom to differentiate between what is right from wrong. He asked the parents to be good role models to their children such that even when they are not there to monitor them, the young ones will follow what has been implanted and taught by their parents. Newly inaugurated Chancellor, Mr. Femi Otedola implored the graduands to embrace and never forget the knowledge they have acquired, as he urged them to use it as a foundation to build their path to success. He urged them to be determined, adding that their resilience will propel them forward as they embrace challenges and opportunities for growth.
In the convocation lecture, entitled, “The youths, the law, the technological age, morality and contemporary Nigeria”, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN charged the graduands to recreate their values of morality based on time-honoured ethos of accountability, responsibility and self-esteem. Stating that integrity is the strongest and clearest guarantee of success, the legal luminary reminded parents that what they sow into their children is what they reap as youths, adding that the family makes the nation. Highpoints of the event included, donation of 1 billion naira by the new Chancellor, as he said 750 million would be for the tuition for returning and incoming students for the 2023/2024 academic year, 140 million for equipping the engineering faculty and 110 million for mounting street lights around the campus.
