From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Vice Chancellor of the Salem University, Lokoja, Professor Johnson Alewo Akubo has charged 168 graduating students of the institution to be good ambassadors of their Alma mater as they go into the labour market in search of greener pastures for survival.
Professor Akubo gave the charge while briefing journalists on the lined up activities for the 7th Convocation ceremony billed to take place on Friday, 21st November.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed that of the total number of the graduands, four will be graduating with first Class Degrees.
He admonished the graduands as Change Agents, to distinguish themselves in various industries. From public administration to media, business, technology, and education, they have demonstrated diligence, creativity, and moral uprightness in every sphere of life.
He noted that employers at various levels have consistently commended Salem University graduates for their integrity, competence, aptitude, sound moral character, and fear of God, dependability and leadership potentials. They are not just academically sound but spiritually and emotionally balanced—reflecting the holistic education philosophy of this great institution which we have maintained overtime and still sustaining” he admonished.
“With gratitude, Professor Akubo acknowledged the visionary leadership of Archbishop Dr. Sam Amaga, the founding chancellor, whose “unwavering faith and compassion” have driven Salem University to become a hub of moral and academic excellence.
Professor Akubo expressed appreciation to Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his support, and extended gratitude to sister universities, partners, and the media for their collaboration.
“Salem University was birthed through divine inspiration to raise global leaders who are spiritually alive, intellectually alert, and socially responsible,” he said.
Highlighting achievements of his administration, Akubo noted that the university’s consistent academic calendar, zero tolerance for malpractice, and recent approval for a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme, positioning Salem as a rising medical hub in North-Central Nigeria.
The institution has also launched postgraduate programmes and is expanding into engineering, agriculture, and environmental sciences.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized Salem’s commitment to community service, providing jobs, promoting entrepreneurship, and uplifting Elete and Jimgbe communities.
“Our graduates are Change Agents, distinguished by integrity, competence, and moral uprightness,” he said, thanking employers for their positive feedback.
Looking ahead, Akubo outlined a vision for Salem to become a world-class institution, driving research, innovation, and international partnerships.
He appealed to the Kogi State government to invest in the university, citing its economic and societal impact, and commended Governor Ododo’s efforts in improving worker welfare.
In a challenge to the government, Akubo urged more investment in healthcare, referencing the governor’s recent initiative to curb medical brain drain. “We commend you where you do well and draw attention to areas needing amends,” he said.
As the university marks this milestone, Professor Akubo thanked the media for amplifying Salem’s story and looked forward to continued support.
With faith in its mission, Salem University graduates another class of transformative leaders into the world.
