Education as a Strategic Tool for Poverty Reduction – Dr. Sununu Charges Graduates to Be Agents of Change

The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has underscored education as a powerful instrument for poverty reduction and sustainable development, particularly in developing nations.

He delivered these remarks as the Guest Speaker at the 23rd Convocation Ceremony of Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO), held on Friday, 28th November 2025, at the University Library Hall.

In his lecture, Dr. Sununu emphasized that education is transformative, capable of reshaping lives, strengthening communities, and advancing societies. He called for Nigeria to place greater focus on technical and vocational education, advocating a shift from purely theoretical learning toward practical, skills-based approaches that equip graduates for real-world challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lawrence Ezemonye, encouraged the 2025 graduating class to leverage their acquired knowledge and skills to drive personal growth and act as catalysts for positive change in their communities and across the nation.

The convocation also featured insights from the Switzerland Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Felix Egloff, who highlighted the pivotal role of education in his country’s development. The event was attended by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Ahmed Tijani Mora, OON.

The Chancellor, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, was represented by the Deputy Chancellor and former Governor of Edo State, Chief Dr. Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion. A key moment of the ceremony was the presentation of a plaque to Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu by the university management in recognition of his contribution.

Members of the University’s Governing Council described the lecture as timely and impactful, given the current socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria.