The former Managing Director of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) TV Enterprises, Mr. Maxwell Loko, has bagged PhD in Political Economy and Development Studies from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
Loko also called on all to give priority to education, make it a passion with interest no matter their age and circumstances.
He made the call while addressing journalists at the 6th Convocation ceremony of Nasarawa State University, Keffi held Thursday at the Convocation Center of the school.
According to him, “For me, it is more than just a degree for financial benefits. That’s why it is quite common for you to hear a lot of successful people telling you not to aim for the money.
“Instead, you should do something you are passionate about. It takes great deal of hard work and determination to keep on going, especially when the odds are stacked against you, but if you are doing something that you love, you are naturally going to succeed.
“Growing up with my siblings, our parents always encouraged us to see beyond the limitations of their very little education but rather to surpass their bar. As parents today therefore, we should strive to set the bar for our children in all aspects of live. So beyond self fulfilment, there is this driving force to motivate the young ones especially those who see us as role models, to achieve irrespective of age.” Loko submitted.
In his address at the program, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Suleiman Bala Muhammad, thanked everyone for coming and charged convocating students to remain true Ambassadors of the school, adding that it was a result of the school acknowledgement of their doggedness and meritorious contributions towards research work that is outstanding which is the reason for this event today.
The former MD said, nothing should be seen as hindrance to anyone’s life pursuit and ambition, not even age nor lack, adding that wrong assumption and comparison had made so many people failures even before they start.
“No matter your age for example, you are, never too young or too old to achieve something significant in your life and be successful. There will always be people who will tell you that it is not possible. But remember, Zuckerberg did say, “I started Facebook when I was 19”.
“The point is, age is nothing but a number. Just because Mark is young does not disqualify him from being richer than 99% of the planet’s population. The same thing applies to all of us. Just because you are senior does not necessarily mean that your life is over; it does not mean that you cannot achieve greatness even in your older years”. He said!
According to Dr. Loko, no knowledge is a waste rather a personal preparation for an opportunity especially now that every sector in the world requires leadership at all levels that are knowledge driven.
“When you say yes to an opportunity, you have to be prepared to do all the work that is required to keep your end of the bargain. However, with commitment and hard work, this habit will be beneficial for your growth.
He also appreciate God, colleagues, course mates, friends and family members, especially his immediate family: his wife and children for their supports at different levels and understanding which is the reason for this success.
“Today history is made for me, obtaining PhD in Political Economy and Development Studies naturally come with a deep sense of fulfilment, especially now that Nigeria more than ever before, requires leadership at different levels that are knowledge driven. Be it at the Federal, State or Local governments.
We hope the Nigeria of tomorrow will take advantage of the abundant knowledge and skills to put the country on the path of economic development.
‘It doesn’t come easy though, because it requires several years of academic research, doggedness and patience”.
He called on the people of his age and retirees like him not to waste the rest of their lives as if all hope are lost rather to take up the challenges and engage in meaningful ventures that will change their fortunes and add value to their life again after successful retirement.
“But to people of my own age I say this specifically: don’t waste the rest of your life staring at the television screen. There’s so much more you can do”. Loko said.
