Wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dame Patience Jonathan, has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Psychology, specialising in Guidance and Counselling, from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.
The academic feat was made public in a statement issued on Sunday by her media adviser, Mr. Chris Okeke.
Speaking at the 43rd Postgraduate Convocation Ceremony of the university held on Saturday, the former First Lady urged Nigerian women and youths to embrace lifelong learning and personal development, regardless of age.
According to her, age should never be a hindrance to the pursuit of knowledge or academic advancement.
“I feel that no age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old. If I can do it, you can also do it,” she said.
“I believe that even in retirement, you are not too old to go back to school because education provides the opportunity for one to always refresh his or her brain and learn new things.
“Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best of themselves through qualitative education,” she added.
Dame Jonathan dedicated her new academic attainment to Nigerian women, reaffirming her resolve to continue championing the rights and welfare of vulnerable groups in society, especially women, children, and young people.
She pledged to intensify advocacy towards their empowerment and contribute meaningfully to national discourse aimed at societal progress.
The former First Lady also took time to reflect on the journey, attributing her success to divine favour and the unwavering support of her family.
“First of all, I am very grateful to the Almighty God who has made today a reality. He saw me through the programme, so I am very happy today,” she said.
“I also thank my family sincerely, especially my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his support and very useful suggestions.
“I am also very grateful to my beautiful and lovely children for showing great understanding and love throughout the period I was engaged in this programme.
“I appreciate all my friends for their encouragement. I feel very happy today,” she stated.
The event attracted dignitaries, academics, and members of the university community who gathered to celebrate the remarkable milestone.
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