Speech Delivered by Isah Zafirah Eneyamire, the Best Graduating Student on the Occasion of the 6th and 7th Convocation of Federal University Lokoja, 21st October 2023

The Visitor, His Excellency, Ahmed Bola Tinibu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, The Chancellor, His Royal Highness Alh. Dr. Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 3rd Governing Council of Federal University Lokoja, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, Members and Management, Distinguished Awardees, Graduands, Ladies and Gentlemen. I have the wonderful privilege of standing in front of you all today to deliver the valedictorian speech at the sixth and seventh Convocation Ceremony. I'm presenting this speech not just as the best, but as a representative of the class of 2020/2021, a class of dogged, intelligent, and well-determined individuals who have fought very hard to achieve this giant stride. All Praises be to Allah.

This academic journey has been filled with ups and downs, pains and gains, tears and laughter, shame and glory, and a whole lot. The struggle began from the very first day I stepped into this school, from trying to meet up with lectures while completing my registration which was very stressful for me as a first-year student. Going further, senior friends told me how difficult it was to pass certain courses, and seeing some other people's poor results on the notice board created some sort of fear and pressure on me. Aside from my academic activities, I was actively involved in extracurricular activities, serving as an executive at MSSN FUL and also helping my mates with tutorials at different times. As a result, I often had busy weekends, sometimes even staying at a friend's place to ease transportation and ensure easy access to school. But I was determined to do my best, I knew with hard work, dedication, group work, and studies with friends, I could change the narrative and by the special grace of Allah, it has been achieved today.

Our academic expedition was not just about grades; it was about the lessons learned from every challenge and the inspiration drawn from every success. As we step into the future, let us carry the wisdom gained during our academic years. Let us be the embodiment of knowledge, compassion, and innovation. Our journey doesn't end here; it transforms into a new chapter, where the lessons of our academic odyssey will continue to guide us toward excellence and fulfillment.

I am reminded of Theodore Roosevelt's wise words as we approach the start of a new chapter in our lives: "Believe you can and you're halfway there." These words serve as a reminder that self-belief is not only a catalyst to success but also the... Read the full text here