All the principal officers of the University, colleagues, distinguished ladies and gentlemen.
I wish to thank you immensely for giving me the opportunity to join and share this important 22nd Founder’s Day with you. I am here at a very significant time for our country and for Africa. What we choose to make of the challenges and as well, opportunities presented, will be critical for the development of Africa and our dear country.
COVID-19 has more than wreaked havoc on all areas of society. Lives have been lost untimely. Businesses and otherwise thriving families put in disarray. Besides the grief visited on individuals and communities, the plague has had huge negative impact on Africa’s health and food systems. We were largely unprepared and our lack of resilience severely tested and exposed our capacity for autonomous response in stark relief. Nigeria depends too dangerously on others for basic needs.