Age shouldn’t limit academic dreams, Ex-First Lady Patience Jonathan Says as she Bags PhD

Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, has been awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree by Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

According to a statement released by her media adviser, Chris Okeke, the former First Lady was among the graduands at the institution’s 43rd convocation ceremony held on Saturday.

Dame Jonathan, while celebrating the achievement, dedicated the academic milestone to Nigerian women and emphasized that age should never be a barrier to educational aspirations.

“I believe no age is too late to pursue your academic dreams—whether young or old,” she said. “If I can do it, you can too.”

She further noted that even in retirement, individuals can return to the classroom, highlighting the importance of continuous learning as a way to refresh the mind and embrace new ideas.

Encouraging women and youths across Nigeria, she said: “Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best versions of themselves through quality education.”

The ex-First Lady also expressed gratitude to her family for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey.

“I sincerely thank my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his support and valuable advice. I’m also deeply grateful to my beautiful children for their understanding and love, and to my friends for their encouragement. Today, I am truly happy.”