The wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dame Patience Jonathan, has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Psychology, Guidance and Counselling from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers State.
The milestone was announced during the institution’s 43rd Postgraduate Convocation Ceremony held on Saturday.
In a statement released by her media adviser, Chris Okeke, on Sunday, the former First Lady dedicated her academic feat to Nigerian women and called on citizens, especially women and youths, to embrace lifelong learning irrespective of age.
Speaking at the ceremony, Jonathan described education as a powerful tool for transformation and personal development. “No age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old, “If I can do it, you can also do it,”she said.
She emphasized the importance of continuous learning even after retirement, noting that education “refreshes the brain and opens new avenues for knowledge.”
While dedicating her academic achievement to Nigerian women, she reaffirmed her commitment to championing the rights and welfare of vulnerable groups.
“Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best of themselves through qualitative education,” she stated.
Jonathan expressed gratitude to God, her family, and her friends for their support throughout the academic journey. “First of all, I am very grateful to the Almighty God who has made today a reality.
“I also 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,” she said.
She added, “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.”
Jonathan pledged to intensify her advocacy for the empowerment of women, children, and youths, and to continue fostering dialogue for national development.
The convocation ceremony was attended by dignitaries from academia, government, and civil society.
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