By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Dr. (Hon.) Umar Etsu Muhammed, the Tafida of Lokoja, has extended heartfelt appreciation to dignitaries, traditional rulers, and well-wishers who joined him at the Federal University Lokoja’s 9th Convocation Ceremony, where he was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree.
Speaking during a well-attended reception at his GRA residence in Lokoja, Dr. Umar said he was overwhelmed by the love and solidarity shown to him by family members, friends, colleagues, and community leaders.
He paid glowing tributes to the Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammadu Kabir Maikarfi III, the Roggan of Eggan, Muhammed Umar Alhassan other traditional title holders, and several royal fathers who came from far and near to grace the occasion.
According to him, their presence added colour and prestige to the ceremony and reflected the unity and strength of the Kogi traditional institution.
Dr. Umar, who has contributed immensely to human and infrastructural development in Lokoja, noted that his recognition by the university was a call to greater service.
He revealed that over the years, he had facilitated the employment of many Lokoja indigenes into various government establishments and private organizations as part of his commitment to youth empowerment.
He further highlighted some of his community interventions, including the sinking of boreholes across Lokoja communities to ease the problem of water scarcity and improve the standard of living of residents.
As part of his support for education, Dr. Umar constructed a modern court facility for the Faculty of Law at the Federal University Lokoja.
The court, he explained, was built to provide a conducive learning environment for law students and to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical legal education.
In his remarks, he commended the management of the university for maintaining academic excellence and for honouring individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society.
He described the honorary doctorate as a recognition of service to humanity and promised to remain a strong partner in the development of the institution.
Dr. Umar also used the opportunity to urge the younger generation to embrace education, hard work, and community service as tools for success and leadership.
He called on wealthy individuals and public-spirited Nigerians to invest in education and youth development to secure a better future for the nation.
He concluded by praying for continued peace, unity, and progress in Lokoja, Kogi State, and Nigeria at large, pledging to continue supporting projects and initiatives that uplift the people.
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