Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has urged young Nigerians pursuing higher education abroad to remain committed to the country’s development by deploying their knowledge, skills and expertise for national growth.
Speaking at the 2026 graduation ceremony of the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) Academy in Abuja, Chidoka encouraged the graduating students to embrace global opportunities while maintaining a strong sense of responsibility towards Nigeria.
Delivering a commencement lecture titled “The Fastest Generation in Human History,” the former minister noted that the graduates were stepping into a rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence, technological innovation and evolving patterns of work and learning.
He observed that many members of the graduating class had secured admission into universities and colleges in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Singapore. While urging them to pursue academic and professional excellence, he stressed the importance of remaining connected to their roots and contributing to national development.
“Wherever life takes you, remember home. Learn from the world, contribute wherever you find yourself, but never forget that the progress of Nigeria will ultimately depend on the willingness of its sons and daughters to invest their knowledge, talent and energy in building a better society,” he said.
Chidoka emphasized that despite rapid technological advancement, enduring values remain critical to both personal success and societal progress. He urged the graduates to uphold three principles rooted in the Igbo worldview—Uche (Wisdom), Uchu (Diligence) and Egwuchukwu (Moral Character).
According to him, wisdom enables sound decision-making, diligence drives achievement, while strong character provides the ethical foundation required to navigate both success and adversity.
The former minister also advised the students to embrace lifelong learning, protect their attention in an increasingly distracting digital environment and anchor their lives on enduring values rather than temporary trends.
He noted that although careers, industries and technologies may evolve, societies will continue to depend on individuals who combine competence, integrity and a commitment to the common good.
Earlier, CTL Academy founder, Agodi Alagbe, congratulated the graduates on the successful completion of their studies and commended them for their exemplary conduct throughout their time at the institution.
She urged the students to serve as worthy ambassadors of the academy as they pursue higher education and future careers across the globe.
A total of 11 students graduated during the 2026 academic session, comprising four senior-grade and seven junior-grade students.
Founded in 2012, CTL Academy is an Abuja-based institution that operates an American curriculum and focuses on values-driven education, innovation and preparing students for global academic opportunities.
