One week after Augustine University's 8th Convocation Ceremony, the inspiring message delivered by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, continues to resonate, particularly his call on Nigerian youths to harness the opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to build their lives, establish enterprises and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Bishop Kukah made the call while delivering the 8th Convocation Lecture of Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos State, on Thursday, 29 October 2026. The lecture was titled “The Pursuit of Happiness in a World of Moral Relativism.”

Addressing the graduating students and other members of the University community, the cleric urged young Nigerians to move beyond constant complaints about political leadership and take responsibility for shaping their future through education, innovation, creativity and technology.

He described the present era as an unprecedented opportunity for young people, noting that Artificial Intelligence is transforming several sectors, including education, medicine, agriculture, banking, law, engineering and business.

According to him, the younger generation must recognise the potential of these emerging technologies and deploy them to develop practical solutions to societal challenges, create businesses and build institutions that serve humanity.

Bishop Kukah also acknowledged the frustrations many young Nigerians face, particularly concerning unemployment, inequality and limited opportunities. However, he encouraged them not to allow these challenges to discourage their ambitions or diminish their belief in the country's potential.

He further urged graduates who might seek opportunities outside Nigeria to remain builders wherever they find themselves, while maintaining the conviction that meaningful progress can also be achieved at home.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Professor Anthony Alaba Akinwale, OP, PhD, STM, challenged Nigerians to change their perception of the country, declaring that “Nigeria is not a tragedy; Nigeria is a blessing waiting to be received.”

He emphasised that education must go beyond obtaining certificates to equipping individuals with intellectual, technical and ethical competencies to transform their communities and contribute to national development.

The University's Chancellor, Mr Femi Otedola, also reaffirmed his belief in education as a powerful instrument for transforming individuals, families and nations, urging graduates to pursue excellence and compete confidently on the global stage.

The convocation lecture reinforced Augustine University's commitment to producing graduates who are intellectually equipped, morally grounded and prepared to respond creatively to the demands of a rapidly changing world.

At Augustine University, we are not just preparing graduates for the future; we are preparing them to build it.