Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, bagged a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Psychology, Guidance, and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers State.
During her convocation speech at the university's 43rd postgraduate ceremony, she urged Nigerians especially women and youth to embrace lifelong learning, stressing that age should never be a barrier to achieving academic dreams.
Patience Jonathan highlighted the value of continuous education and encouraged women and young people to never give up on their academic goals.
"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.
The former First Lady emphasized that even in retirement, going back to school remains worthwhile.
"I believe that even in retirement, you are not too old to go back to school because education provides the opportunity to always refresh one's brain and learn new things. Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best versions of themselves through quality education," she added.
She dedicated her academic achievement to Nigerian women and reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for vulnerable groups, especially women, children, and young people.
Reflecting on her journey, she expressed deep gratitude to God, her family, and friends for their unwavering support.
"I sincerely thank my family, especially my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his support and useful suggestions," she said. "I am also very grateful to my beautiful and loving 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."
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