Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has ordered the abolition of combined convocation ceremonies at Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), directing that future convocations must be held annually and as scheduled.
The directive was issued over the weekend during the institution’s 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th combined convocation ceremony held in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area. The governor made it clear that the practice of merging multiple convocation ceremonies would no longer be permitted.
“This will be the last combined convocation to take place in this university,” Eno stated. “Vice-Chancellor, I want you to work out modalities so that convocations are conducted as and when due.”
The governor, who holds a doctoral degree, also expressed a personal interest in contributing to the academic development of the institution. He appealed to the university’s management to allow him to teach a course in the newly established Department of Business Development and Entrepreneurial Studies on a pro bono basis.
Despite acknowledging the demands of his office, Eno said he would make time to engage with students and share practical insights, particularly in the area of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship as a key driver of growth and sustainability.
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“I am thrilled with the addition of this department,” he said. “I am announcing my readiness to teach a course pro bono, to impart practical knowledge that will help students understand the fundamentals of business development, especially SMEs.”
The governor further encouraged graduating students to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, urging them to become change-makers in society. He described entrepreneurship as a critical ingredient for unlocking individual potential and achieving long-term success.
In addition, Eno authorised the state’s Head of Service to develop a framework for the possible employment of outstanding graduates. This includes first-class degree holders as well as selected postgraduate students with master’s and doctoral qualifications. The move, he said, is aimed at rewarding academic excellence and strengthening the state’s workforce.
Referring to the convocation lecture theme, “The Nigerian University System and National Defence in the 21st Century,” the governor also called for continued support for President Bola Tinubu in addressing the country’s security challenges.
He commended the Vice-Chancellor, Oto-Abasi Akpan, for his leadership, dedication, and collaborative approach, which he said had contributed significantly to the institution’s growth and development.
In his remarks, Professor Akpan expressed appreciation to the governor for his sustained support and confidence in the university’s administration. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to upholding its academic standards and institutional goals.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that a total of 6,779 undergraduate students and 746 postgraduate students were awarded degrees during the ceremony. He urged the graduands to uphold the values of the institution and serve as worthy ambassadors in their future endeavours.
The governor’s directives and announcements signal a renewed focus on academic excellence, institutional discipline, and practical education, as AKSU moves to align more closely with global best practices in university administration.
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