Eugenia Abu Urges FUL Students to Build Purpose-Driven Careers

Renowned broadcaster, media executive, and Chief Executive Officer of The Eugenia Abu Media, Mrs. Eugenia Abu, has urged students of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) to intentionally build meaningful careers by living purposefully, cultivating sound character, and embracing discipline as essential ingredients for long-term success.

She gave the charge while delivering a Special Public Lecture organised by the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages of the Federal University Lokoja.

The lecture, held at the University's Multipurpose Hall, Felele Campus, was themed, "From Campus to Career: Designing the Future You Want." It attracted dignitaries from various sectors, principal officers of the University, deans, directors, heads of departments, staff, students, alumni, media practitioners, and other invited guests.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, described the event as the first public lecture organised under his administration through the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages.

He said the initiative reflects the University's commitment to exposing students to accomplished professionals whose experiences can inspire them to make informed career decisions and prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

Reflecting on Nigeria's broadcasting history, Professor Ibileye recalled a time when the 9:00 p.m. network news united families and broadcasters were widely respected for their professionalism, discipline, and excellence.

He paid tribute to renowned broadcasters, including Sienne Allwell Brown, Ronke Ayuba, Yinka Craig, Ruth Benamaisia Opia, Cyril Stober, Fatima Abbas Hassan, Tokunbo Ajayi, and Mrs. Eugenia Abu, whom he described as one of the finest broadcasters of her generation.

The Vice-Chancellor also shared his personal experience of aspiring to become a broadcaster during his National Youth Service. He recounted his brief time in television before discovering that his true calling was in academia, stressing that individuals must identify the path best suited to them rather than pursuing every available opportunity.

According to him, Mrs. Abu's remarkable career demonstrates how talent, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose can transform a young graduate into a respected media professional whose impact spans generations.

He encouraged students, particularly those studying Mass Communication, to regard the lecture as a valuable masterclass from a professional who intentionally built an enduring career through commitment and excellence.

Delivering the lecture, Mrs. Abu urged students to resist the temptation of chasing every opportunity that comes their way, noting that successful careers are built through deliberate choices rather than random decisions.

"Not every door is meant for you," she said, emphasizing the importance of discovering one's purpose and remaining focused on it.

She stressed that character is one of the greatest assets anyone can possess, reminding students that academic qualifications alone are insufficient for lasting success.

"Nobody will award you a degree without character and learning," she said.

Mrs. Abu encouraged students to cultivate integrity, discipline, humility, accountability, and professionalism, explaining that employers and society place immense value on individuals whose character complements their academic achievements.

She also highlighted the importance of effective time management and punctuality, urging students to honour their commitments and avoid developing habits of lateness and making excuses.

While acknowledging that failure is an inevitable part of personal growth, she encouraged students not to allow setbacks to define them but to learn from every experience as they prepare for successful careers and purposeful lives.

Further details of the lecture are expected to be released by the University.