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See Why Patience Jonathan Says It’s Never Too Late to Go Back to School

Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, Guidance, and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State.
Speaking during the 43rd postgraduate convocation ceremony of the university, Dame Jonathan used the platform to encourage Nigerians, especially women and young people, to embrace lifelong learning, stressing that education has no age limit.
“I feel that no age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old. If I can do it, you can also do it,” she declared to a cheering audience.
The former First Lady, who returned to school after her time in public office, shared her personal journey as evidence that learning should never end, even in retirement.
“I believe that even in retirement, you are not too old to go back to school because education provides the opportunity to always refresh one’s brain and learn new things,” she said.
She dedicated her doctorate to Nigerian women and reaffirmed her lifelong commitment to the cause of vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and youth.
“I use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best versions of themselves through quality education,” she added.
With heartfelt emotion, Dame Jonathan expressed deep gratitude to her family and loved ones for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey.
“I sincerely thank my family, especially my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his support and useful suggestions,” she said. “I am also very grateful to my beautiful and loving children for showing great understanding and love throughout the period I was engaged in this programme. I appreciate all my friends for their encouragement. I feel very happy today.”
Her message struck a powerful chord with attendees and has since sparked conversations online about the importance of education beyond the traditional years of schooling.
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