241 Bag First-Class as Babcock University Graduates 3,229 Students

Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, marked a significant academic milestone over the weekend as it graduated a total of 3,229 students, including 241 who achieved first-class honours across various faculties.

A detailed breakdown of the graduating class revealed 2,543 undergraduates and 686 postgraduate students, which included 217 PhD holders, 30 MPhil awardees, 359 master’s degree recipients, and 80 students who earned postgraduate diplomas (PGD).

Miss Fatima Lawal from the Faculty of Law emerged as the best graduating student overall, achieving a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.97.

During the 23rd undergraduate and 14th postgraduate convocation ceremony, where degrees and honorary doctorate awards were conferred, the President/Vice Chancellor, Prof Ademola Tayo—whose term ends on 1 December—highlighted the university’s milestones and the inspiring success stories of its students, including research achievements, widened access to quality education, staff motivation and development, stronger community engagement, and outstanding medical interventions, among others.

He stated that the Babcock University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) had successfully conducted 20 open-heart surgeries, 22 paediatric cardiac catheterisations, spine surgeries, neurosurgeries, joint replacements, gastrointestinal endoscopies, and renal dialysis procedures, which demonstrate the institution’s growing reputation as a leading medical facility.

“From inception to the establishment of our Cardiac Centre, we have raised the bar in healthcare delivery,” Prof Tayo stated. “We’re saving lives and training professionals in world-class environments.”

He also spoke about the university’s commitment to its host community, stating that the institution has funded scholarships for residents, undertaken infrastructure projects, organised free medical outreaches, and provided health screenings and consultations.

“We are not just building graduates; we are building bridges with our community,” the VC said.

Addressing the graduating students, Tayo said, “Let your knowledge serve justice. Let your talents solve problems. Let your values inspire hope. Be fearless. Be kind. Be Babcock.”

The University’s Pro-Chancellor, Pastor Istifanus Ishaya, urged the Class of 2025 to look beyond academic success and lead lives of purpose, service, and ethical leadership in a fast-evolving world. Speaking on the theme, ‘Beyond Degrees: Building Impactful Lives in a Changing World’,

Ishaya encouraged them to rise above the pursuit of wealth and titles, and instead focus on contributing to nation-building and community service. “Let your education be a tool for transformation, not just of your own life, but of the society you are called to serve.”

Acknowledging the importance of global relevance, the Pro-Chancellor stressed the value of strategic collaborations with industries, international universities, and research institutions.

“These partnerships enrich our curriculum, expand our students’ horizons and position Babcock as a hub for ethical leadership and innovation in Africa,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to both local and international partners for their ongoing support in driving academic and societal progress.

In his commencement address, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, a Zimbabwean businessman and founder and CEO of Sakunda Holdings, noted that graduation is not the final goal but rather the start of a meaningful journey. “Standing is not enough. You have been given the power to walk; now use it,” he told the graduating students, stressing that the knowledge and guidance they received must result in real-world action.

He urged the graduates to take responsibility for shaping their future, pointing out that their accomplishments would not only reflect on them individually but also on their alma mater. “The quality of your lecturers will be recognised by how you walk,” he said, adding that their achievements will project Babcock University’s excellence to the global stage.

He further encouraged Nigerian graduates to explore the wide array of opportunities in entrepreneurship and public service within their homeland. “Nigeria is probably the biggest market in Africa. I encourage you to venture into businesses, open manufacturing industries, and develop innovative technologies,” he said.

Tagwirei cautioned against abandoning the core values taught at the university. “Don’t walk away from the temple. Your walk should lead you into it,” he urged, underlining the need to uphold spiritual values and moral uprightness after graduation.