Patience Jonathan, wife of Nigeria’s former President Goodluck Jonathan, has achieved a major academic milestone, earning a PhD in Psychology, Guidance and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.
In a statement released Sunday by her media adviser, Chris Okeke, She highlighted the value of lifelong learning and the mental growth that comes with it.
The former First Lady shared the moment with fellow graduates during the university’s 43rd Postgraduate Convocation Ceremony on Saturday, using the occasion to send a powerful message to women and young people across the country.
“I feel that no age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old,” she said.
“If I can do it, you can also do it.”
“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,” she said.
Calling on Nigerian women and youth to push beyond their limitations, she encouraged them to embrace quality education as a tool for self-empowerment.
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“Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best of themselves through qualitative education,” she said.
Dr Jonathan dedicated her new academic title to Nigerian women, reaffirming her commitment to advocating for vulnerable groups, especially women, children and the youth. She pledged to continue promoting dialogue and social change in ways that uplift communities.
Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude for the support system that helped her along the way.
“First of all, I am very grateful to the Almighty God who has made today a reality,” she said. “He saw me through the programme so I am very happy today.”
She also credited her family for standing by her throughout the process.
“I 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.”