Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed education central role in national development, declaring it “the mightiest weapon in the arsenal of civilization” during the inauguration of Amadeus University in Amizi, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.
Akpabio, who was represented by Senator Austin Akobundu (Abia Central), delivered a powerful address at the university’s maiden matriculation ceremony, emphasizing that a nation’s success depends on the quality of its education rather than military strength or natural resources.
The Senate President stressed that Amadeus University was not just another institution but a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s future.
“Education is a beacon that shall shine through the darkness of ignorance, guiding young minds towards the shores of wisdom and greatness,” he said. “Nations rise and fall not by the strength of their armies but by the quality of their education and the spirit of their people.”
He urged the new students to embrace their academic journey with determination, reminding them that their education would shape Nigeria’s future.
“You are the hope of our country. The universities of the world are the factories of the future, and those who neglect them do so at their peril,” he declared.
Akpabio emphasized the government’s role in strengthening the educational sector, warning that a nation that neglects education is doomed to fail.
“We must guard, strengthen, and expand the frontiers of education with unyielding determination. Every child, from the bustling streets of Lagos to the quiet hamlets of Abia, must have the opportunity to learn, grow, and excel,” he stated.
He also called on the private sector and philanthropists to support education, stressing that institutions like Amadeus University should be encouraged to thrive and drive innovation.
Dr. Godwin Nwabunka, founder and chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees, described the institution as a product of vision, hard work, and faith.
“This university was founded to do more than teach; it was envisioned as a crucible to empower, inspire, and shape the next generation of African leaders,” Nwabunka said.
He highlighted the university’s mission to produce graduates who are “academically excellent, morally grounded, and globally competitive.” He further noted that Amadeus University aims to be a catalyst for wider development, benefiting not only Abia State but Nigeria as a whole.
The university is backed by the Grooming Centre, a microfinance institution focused on economic empowerment. Nwabunka described the partnership as “a model for the interplay between industry and academia, with net positive effects on national development.”
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Samuel Mbadike Nzotta announced that the new students would pursue degrees in Science and Computing, Social and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Engineering.
He encouraged students to focus on personal development and avoid the distractions of social media, urging them to acquire relevant skills that would prepare them to be future leaders.
Nzotta also revealed that scholarship schemes had been established by the university’s founder and Grooming Centre to support outstanding students, further encouraging academic excellence.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures from various sectors, including industry leaders, academics, medical professionals, and government representatives. Notable attendees included the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, Prof. Onyebuchi Azubuike, a representative of Kwankwasiya Movement leader Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso, and a member of the Governing Council of the North East Development Commission, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo.
