MTU graduates 282 students as Gov Eno delivers convocation lecture
By Benjamin GBOR
Mountain Top University, Ibafo, Ogun State, has graduated 282 students at its 7th convocation ceremony, with the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, delivering the convocation lecture.
Addressing the graduands, Governor Eno urged them to dream big and embrace hard work, creativity and passion, stressing that success in today’s fast-changing world depends on discipline, innovation and strong moral values. He said modern society, shaped by rapid technological advancement, demands a creative mindset that is willing to challenge long-held beliefs.
The governor cautioned against an entitlement mentality and the pursuit of quick success, warning that achievement without hard work is often short-lived. Drawing from motivational author Simon Sinek’s philosophy of “dream big, start small, and above all, start,” he advised the graduands to build their lives on integrity, transparency, humility and faith in God.
Governor Eno also shared his personal journey, recalling how he assisted his mother in hawking soft drinks on the streets of Lagos after the death of his father, a police officer, while he was still a student. He said the experience helped shape his entrepreneurial spirit, which later led to the establishment of one of the largest hospitality businesses in Akwa Ibom State.
According to him, honesty, integrity and faith in God were central to his success, noting that although the path to success is rarely smooth, it is attainable through upright living and perseverance. He assured the graduands that God can uplift anyone who is willing to start small, work hard and remain steadfast.
Highlighting his administration’s focus on social welfare, the governor listed initiatives such as the construction of over 335 fully furnished compassionate homes for widows and vulnerable persons, the payment of ₦50,000 monthly stipends to elders across the state, and the provision of free food vouchers for the most vulnerable.
The Chancellor of the university and General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Prof. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, commended Governor Eno for delivering an inspiring lecture and for honouring the convocation ceremony with his presence. He described the governor as a values-driven leader with a genuine passion for people and development, and offered prayers for divine wisdom and continued success in his leadership.
In the same vein, the Vice-Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Prof. Elijah Adebowale Ayolabi, praised the governor for accepting the invitation and for delivering what he described as a stimulating and impactful lecture that would leave a lasting impression on the graduands.
A breakdown of the convocation statistics shows that 282 undergraduates were awarded degrees, including 42 first-class graduates. In addition, 64 students completed Postgraduate Diploma and Master’s programmes, while nine candidates were awarded doctoral degrees.
