By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a courageous leader committed to tackling Nigeria’s challenges head-on, even at personal cost.

Dogara made these remarks at the 14th Convocation and 17th Foundation Anniversary of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, where he serves as the Chancellor.

According to Dogara, Tinubu’s recent actions, including the proposed tax reforms and freeing local governments from economic stagnation, demonstrate a willingness to confront difficult conversations and stubborn challenges.

“With what President Bola Tinubu has done, whether it’s freeing local governments from the chokehold of economic stagnation or his groundbreaking tax reform proposals before the National Assembly, I see a glimmer of hope. He is a leader who is prepared to lead with unbridled courage, even at personal cost.”

Dogara expressed his support for the tax reforms, emphasizing their necessity despite imperfections.

“I support the president’s tax reforms not because they are perfect but because they are the right thing to do. Those opposing the reforms must clearly articulate their disagreements and present better alternatives for Nigerians to compare and decide.”

He dismissed calls to halt the reforms as bad politics or sheer buffoonery, emphasizing the importance of bold, coordinated actions to address Nigeria’s economic challenges.

Dogara also urged Nigerian youths to play a central role in transforming the nation.

“Through education, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence, we can build a Nigeria that fulfills the aspirations of its people.”

He called on universities to foster partnerships with industries and governments to ensure that knowledge generated within academic institutions has practical applications in addressing the nation’s economic challenges.

The institution’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, highlighted the university’s commitment to producing skilled graduates over the past 17 years. However, he lamented the bleak employment prospects for many of Nigeria’s graduates.

“Nigeria’s 275 universities and over 500 higher institutions jointly produce over a million graduates annually, yet there are insufficient jobs to enable them to contribute meaningfully to national development.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Omolola Irinoye, announced that 71 of the 700 graduating students achieved first-class honors. She noted the university’s efforts to turn the brain drain into a “brain gain” by leveraging technology to connect with Nigerians abroad who can contribute remotely.

The event celebrated the achievements of the 654 undergraduate and 46 postgraduate students, emphasizing the university’s focus on leveraging technology and collaboration to address the nation’s challenges.