1st October, 2023
By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Nexford University (NXU), a next-generation online university based in Washington DC, U.S., 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 the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Fadl Al Tarzi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NXU, said that the institution was very proud of Nigerian learners.
Those who received the awards included Adeshile Oluwabusayo who emerged as the Best Peer Mentor for BBA (Undergraduate Degree) and Monsuru Popoola, Best Peer Mentor MBA (Graduate Degree).
While Daniel Oreofe was awarded the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, Sonter James emerged as the Outstanding Brand Ambassador.
Accolades filled the air as James Ogo-Oluwa Osinowo was awarded the Valedictorian of the Year for Class 2023 having bagged a 4.0 CGPA alongside over 40 other Nigerians.
Announcing the awardees for the Class of 2023, Nexford’s Community Development Manager, Sally Okogho, noted that 42 Nigerian students graduated with a 4.0 CGPA (distinction) out of the 622 graduates.
Tarzi, who described Nigerian students as resilient, said they valued education which had distinguished and placed them higher across the world.
The NXU CEO also urged the graduates to showcase their superior skills to the world, adding that Nigerians in the U.S. were, 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 talents, showcase your superior skills and let the world witness the value you add, and the legacy you create,” he added.
Speaking, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, said academic institutions like Nexford would help Nigeria fix human capital deficiencies.
According to Ezekwesili, who is a Board Member of NXU, the university is one of the global institutions that has visibly given the skills that are necessary for the 21st century.