Nexford University (NXU), a next-generation online university based in Washington DC, America has awarded five Nigerian students for being outstanding in academics and character during its 2023 graduation event.
Speaking at the ceremony held on Saturday at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Fadl Al Tarzi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nexford University said that the institution is very proud of Nigerian learners.
Among those awarded is Adeshile Oluwabusayo who emerged as the Best Peer Mentor for BBA (Undergraduate Degree) and Monsuru Adebayo Popoola, Best Peer Mentor MBA (Graduate Degree).
While Daniel Oreofe was awarded the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, Sonter Samuel James emerged as the Outstanding Brand Ambassador.
Accolades rented the air as James Ogo-Oluwa Osinowo was awarded as the Valedictorian of the Year for Class 2023 having bagged a 4.0 CGPA.
Announcing the awardees for the Class of 2023, Nexford’s Community Development Manager, Sally Okogho, noted that over 40 Nigerian students graduated with a 4.0 CGPA (distinction) out of the 622 graduates.
NEXFORD CEO Hails Nigerian Students
Tarzi who described Nigerian students as resilient said they valued education which has distinguished and placed them higher across the world.
He also urged the graduates to showcase their superior skills to the world.
He said, “Nigerians in the United States are, on average, twice as educated as the average American. It is time for you to ascend to leadership, redefine perceptions, and engrave your marks on societies, whether here in Nigeria or beyond your borders.
“If your journey takes you to foreign lands, remember, you are the architects of perceptions, the ambassadors of our values. Make those lands realise the privilege of hosting Nigerian talent. Showcase your superior skills and let the world witness the value you add, and the legacy you create.”
Ezekwesili Advises Nexford Graduates To Unleash Potential
Speaking, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, said academic institutions like Nexford would help Nigeria fix human capital deficiencies.
Ezekwesili, a board member of NXU, noted that the university is one of the global institutions that have visibly given the skills that are necessary for the 21st century.
She also advised the graduating students to unleash the potential in them, saying they have the required skills to compete favourably with their colleagues worldwide.
“If we increase our Gross Domestic Product and we spread the sources of our GDP, what we will have is inclusive prosperity, so we must have graduates of this kind from as many institutions as possible,” she noted.
Be Courageous, Tony Cole Urges Nexford Graduates
Tonye Cole, Co-founder/former Group Executive Director, Sahara Group, in his keynote address, urged the graduates to expect challenges as they move to the next phase of life.
He said, “Do not be afraid to fail, even when you do, start again, try again and retrace your steps and be courageous for every success story has stories to tell.
“You have to decide on your own but you must seek wisdom to guide your steps, this is key because it is what you need to navigate the world and keep your eyes on your goal.”
How Nexford Boosted My Job Opportunities – Valedictorian
The valedictorian, James Ogo-Oluwa Osinowo, in his speech, narrated how Nexford University inculcated resilience, teamwork and perseverance in the learners.
He also noted that the university exposes students to “possibilities and opportunities”.
Osinowo said, “Immediately I completed my MBA in January 2023, the following month saw me receive an offer for the role of Group Finance Manager! And it’s just the beginning. One of the important lessons we’ve learned during our time here is the power of resilience. We’ve faced demanding assignments and tests, gruelling projects and sleepless nights, yet we persevered.”
2023 Graduation: Nexford Holds Master Classes, Career Fair, Others
The graduation ceremony also witnessed master classes, a career fair with Nigeria’s leading companies, a start-up demo and an exhibition.
During the start-up pitches and exhibition, seasoned experts like Iyin Aboyeji of Future Africa, and Napa Onwusah, Leader for AWS Startups in Africa among others tutored the graduates.
The master class sessions centred on building and scaling a startup, designing a fulfilling career, becoming globally relevant, sales skills for founders and succeeding in a remote job environment.
Why Nexford Is The Best Online Varsity – Country Director
On her part, Nexford Country Director, Oghogho Inneh, noted that the university’s standard e-learning platform and flexibility in learning stand it out among its peers.
“Our programs are future-focused and competency-based, enabling learners to build practical skills they will use to get ahead in their careers. And with no fixed class times, they can flex their learning to fit their schedule. Tuition fees are charged monthly, so the faster learners graduate the more money they save,” she added.
