Godfrey Okoye University Enugu has marked its 13th Convocation Ceremony with inspiring messages of hope, excellence, and commitment to nation-building.

At the Holy Mass held at the Aminu Waziri Tambuwal Convocation Arena, the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke reminded Christians of their calling to be instruments of salvation, healing the world with kindness and compassion. He urged students, graduands, and staff to be their brother’s keeper, bringing light to those in pain, sorrow, or affliction.

Representing the Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure youth employment and security in the state. He commended GOUNI for its remarkable contributions to development and noted that the state is investing heavily in modern technology to strengthen security operations.

Chairman, Board of Trustees, Prof. Bartho Okolo highlighted the university’s outstanding achievements in the past year and applauded the state government for its partnership, especially through the DNA Learning Centre, an initiative expected to significantly aid the fight against crime.

The Promoter and Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Callistus Onaga praised the university’s steady growth in infrastructure and academic programs despite economic challenges. He applauded the Vice Chancellor and his team for their unwavering dedication and thanked parents for trusting the institution with both the academic and moral formation of their wards.

In his convocation address themed “GO is going higher,” Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke announced that the university graduated over 660 students, the highest since its inception. He outlined developments such as the College of Medicine, GOUNI Teaching Hospital, DNA Learning Centre, multiple inaugural lectures in one academic year, international partnerships, grants, and sponsorships. He noted that the graduates have been groomed physically, emotionally, intellectually, socially, and spiritually to face the realities of their environment, adding that the university has also continued to record national and international laurels in competitions.

The Pro-Chancellor, HRM Prof. Christian Nwachukwu Okeke described the graduates as the true success story of the university, urging them to uphold the GOUNI values of excellence in character and learning.

The Chancellor and Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius Kaigama expressed concern over the high unemployment rate in Nigeria and called on the government to urgently address the challenge. He encouraged graduates to see their achievements as a launchpad for greater accomplishments.

This year’s Best Graduating Student, Azubuike Nkenna Mary of the Department of Psychology, finished with an exceptional CGPA of 4.96.

The ceremony also honoured two distinguished Nigerians with Honorary Doctorates in Management:

Captain Everest Nnaji, Chairman of Odengene Foundation

Mr. Nnamdi Silas Ozor, MD/CEO of Tribu Hotel

The 13th Convocation once again highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing future-ready leaders and driving meaningful progress in society.