The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, extended a warm welcome to the 7,571 newly admitted students during the 13th matriculation ceremony held at the university’s temporary campus in Adankolo, Lokoja. He congratulated them on their remarkable achievement, emphasizing that their selection from a large pool of applicants was a testament to their hard work and commitment, not a matter of chance. He expressed pride in welcoming them into the university community and acknowledged the shared joy of their families and well-wishers on this momentous occasion.
While acknowledging the celebratory atmosphere of the matriculation, Professor Akinwumi delivered a stern warning against engaging in cultism and other detrimental activities throughout their academic journey. He underscored the university’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards of conduct, emphasizing that academic excellence alone is insufficient for graduation. He stressed the importance of character development, urging the newly matriculated students to steer clear of social vices such as cultism, indecent dressing, examination malpractice, sexual misconduct, drug abuse, and any other behavior that could jeopardize their future prospects. He made it clear that the university operates a zero-tolerance policy towards such behaviors.
Professor Akinwumi reiterated the university’s firm stance on academic integrity and discipline. He cautioned the students against complacency, reminding them that their admission was a privilege earned through diligence and dedication. He emphasized the need to maintain this commitment throughout their academic journey, warning that the university would not hesitate to expel any student found wanting in academic diligence or discipline. This warning, he explained, was not intended to instill fear but to prepare the students for the demanding academic environment they were entering.
The Vice-Chancellor further elaborated on the consequences of engaging in prohibited activities. He explained that the university’s zero-tolerance policy signifies an unwavering commitment to upholding academic standards and ensuring a conducive learning environment for all. He clarified that any student found to be involved in cultism, examination malpractice, or any form of deviant behavior would face immediate disciplinary action, including expulsion. He reiterated that academic excellence without good character is insufficient to earn a degree from the university.
Professor Akinwumi’s address served as a clear articulation of the university’s expectations for its students. He highlighted the importance of upholding both academic and moral standards, stressing that success at the university requires a commitment to both. He encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, both intellectually and personally, within the supportive and challenging environment provided by the university.
In closing, the Vice-Chancellor urged the students to make the most of their time at the Federal University, Lokoja. He encouraged them to actively participate in academic and extracurricular activities, to cultivate meaningful relationships with faculty and peers, and to contribute positively to the university community. He reiterated the university’s commitment to providing them with a high-quality education and wished them success in their academic pursuits. His message was clear: the university welcomes and celebrates its new students but expects them to uphold its values of integrity, diligence, and respect.
