Nile University Hosts 13th Convocation Ceremony and Unveils New Business School
By Joseph Erunke, Abuja
Nile University of Nigeria is set to embark on a new journey as it prepares for its 13th Convocation Ceremony. This event will not only celebrate the achievements of its graduates but will also mark the official launch of the Nile University Business School. This new initiative aims to enhance skills-based education, foster global partnerships, and prepare students for the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
During a press conference in Abuja, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dilli Dogo FNAMed, emphasized that the upcoming convocation in 2025 will be a pivotal moment for the university. He stated that Nile University is moving forward with confidence, ready to take significant strides into the future.
The convocation ceremony will include degree awards, prize presentations, a convocation lecture, and an honorary doctorate conferred on former President Goodluck Jonathan. A number of notable guests from various industries and academic sectors are expected to attend.
Following the press briefing, the university officially opened its Business School, an initiative Prof. Dogo believes will significantly define the institution’s future. He spoke about the university’s affiliation with Honoris United Universities, which is Africa’s largest private higher education network encompassing 16 institutions across 10 nations. His vision focuses on delivering an impactful education to cultivate students who are equipped with modern skills.
“Africa missed out on the first three industrial revolutions,” Prof. Dogo remarked. “We cannot afford to miss the fourth. Our education programs are designed to be top-notch,” he added.
The theme for this year’s convocation emphasizes the need to redefine education to meet modern workforce needs, moving away from traditional paper qualifications to focus on real, applicable skills. Prof. Dogo stated, “While we award degrees, the real measure is what our graduates can achieve. Our philosophy is ‘Beyond Degrees.’”
Architect Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, will deliver the convocation lecture, bringing valuable insights to the event.
Prof. Dogo also highlighted the growing global recognition of degrees from Nile University. Their medical qualifications are now accepted by bodies in the UK and ECFMG, and students in cybersecurity have begun working internationally ahead of graduation. “We want our graduates to be part of the global workforce even before they officially graduate,” he stressed.
Additionally, he noted the strengthened partnership with ACCA Global, allowing students to earn professional certifications before graduation. Recently, the ACCA Regional Director awarded certificates to numerous students, many of whom excelled in accounting and finance.
Significant achievements across various faculties were also mentioned. For example, engineering students completed a project on urban waste management for the Government of Zanzibar, catching attention from Abu Dhabi. Other projects include a mini-factory coming from Europe to enhance practical engineering training and a vibrant business incubation program that helps students start companies and secure internships around the world.
“This is how we prepare our students not just to look for jobs, but to create their own opportunities,” Prof. Dogo said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Nile University to provide world-class facilities and faculty across all disciplines, from political science to engineering and health sciences.
Launch of the Business School
The highlight of the day was the inauguration of the Nile University Business School, attended by industry leaders and academic partners. Prof. Dogo expressed gratitude to long-term supporters like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and acknowledged DigiTech’s pro bono contributions to postgraduate education.
Introducing the first dean, Prof. Noel Tagoe, who previously worked at the University of Oxford, Prof. Dogo stated, “We are dedicated to making a serious impact in business education as an institution.”
In his remarks, Prof. Tagoe explained that the Business School aims to be a world-class center, focused on nurturing Africa’s next leaders and innovators. “Our goal is to shape individuals who can change the world and define our future,” he said.
Prof. Tagoe unveiled a strategic model based on five pillars focusing on employability, public policy, leadership, entrepreneurship, and industry engagement. “We don’t just teach for recitation; we teach to solve real problems,” he emphasized.
Plans for a new learning centre in Lagos, aimed to serve the significant demand from prospective executive-education students, were also revealed.
“We are bringing education and skill development closer to those who need it most,” he noted.
He concluded his address with an inspiring message about Africa’s potential and Nigeria’s crucial role, stating, “If Nigeria thrives, Africa thrives with it. Together, we’re starting a journey today that will create impactful stories for many Africans and Nigerians linked to this institution.”
