- Dame Patience Jonathan, former First Lady of Nigeria, earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Psychology, Guidance, and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State.
- At the university’s 43rd postgraduate ceremony, she urged Nigerians, particularly women and youth, to embrace lifelong learning and not let age hinder their academic aspirations.
Former Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has been awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, Guidance, and Counselling by Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers State.
Speaking during the university’s 43rd postgraduate convocation ceremony, Jonathan delivered an inspiring message to Nigerians—particularly women and young people—urging them to embrace education at any stage of life.
“I feel that 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 declared.
Highlighting the significance of lifelong learning, she emphasized that returning to school—even after retirement is a valuable pursuit.
“I believe that even in retirement, you are not too old to go back to school because education provides the opportunity to always refresh one’s brain and learn new things. Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best versions of themselves through quality education,” she added.
Dame Patience Jonathan dedicated her academic success to Nigerian women and reiterated her commitment to advocating for the welfare of vulnerable groups, including women, children, and youths.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family and supporters for standing by her throughout her academic journey.
“I sincerely thank my family, especially my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his support and useful suggestions,” she said. “I am also very grateful to my beautiful and loving 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.”
Her achievement has been widely celebrated as a testament to perseverance, lifelong learning, and the power of education to transform lives at any age.
