Former Chief of Army Staff and the Betera of Biu, General Tukur Buratai Rtd has said the students’ loan scheme introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will transform the educational system in the country.
The former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic said this in his acceptance speech at Nigerian Army University Biu, after where was confered with Honourary Doctorate Degree of Doctor of letters, during their maiden convocation
Buratai who spoke on behalf of other awardees also commended President Tinubu for his support for Nigerian Army and Nigerian Army University Biu.
“Let me also appreciate our current President, HE, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his love for education and his support to our teeming youthful population who form the bulk of tertiary institutions students in our country.”
Buratai who conceived and played a critical role in the establishment of the University in 2018 while he was the COAS equally thanked former President, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, in whose time NAUB was established.
“As I conclude, I urge those in charge of this institution to include in their curriculum the life skills that must be taught to our youths in order for them to become responsible members of the larger society and develop good character, as education is not only about learning but also about character development. Said General Buratai in his speech.
He further reiterated that, “It is essential to acquire advanced technical skills, but it is also expedient to have the training and discipline necessary to live in harmony with other members of society. I have in mind skills that foster tolerance for the differing perspectives of others, skills that promote peace, skills that instill ethical behavior in the practice of our profession, and above all, patriotism for our nation. Only by cultivating individuals with a diverse set of talents can we ensure that they will contribute to their own well-being and to that of society.”
Speaking on the award, Gen Buratai said ” I would like to thank the Pro-Chancellor and members of Council, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja, the Vice Chancellor Prof Kyari Mohammed and members of Senate, and the university community for finding us worthy of these prestigious awards.
“We understand these degrees automatically confer on us membership of the Alumni Association and Board of Fellows, like good alumni, we promise to be good ambassadors of the university. You have given us additional opportunity to continue our association with, and contributions to this exceptional institution.”
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, in his remarks explained that the Nigerian Army University in Biu, Borno state was established as a means to explore a non-kinetic approach in the service operations against insurgency.
The University Chancellor, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd) who is also the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Delta State, highlighted the positive impact of siting the University in Biu and encouraged the graduates to pursue entrepreneurship instead of traditional white-collar jobs.
The list of Honorary Awardees and graduates according to their class of degree’s including Notable honorees like Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd) and Lt. General Tukur Yusufu Buratai among others was read at the convocation ceremony.
