POWERFUL AND EMOTIONAL GRADUATION SPEECH BY JUSTICE TENA OGBABURU

I was given the honour by my University to take the graduation speech, on behalf of my fellow graduating students. The speech was voted by the Deans and Chancellor, as one of the best and powerful speech the University has ever had. See the full speech and video below.

WATCH SPEECH HERE


Graduation Speech by Justice Tenna Ogbaburu

I would like to start by sending warm greetings to the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, my fellow graduants, families and all invited guests. Today is one of the happiest days of my life, a day to rejoice our academic achievements, and it is a moment of mix feeling as, we would be saying goodbye to friends and teachers of whom we have made unforgettable memories together.

The years I spent at the University of Lincoln is highly significant to my journey in life, it was a journey of self-discovery. To me, the University of Lincoln is more than an academic institution, it is home far away from home. The  multicultural nature of Lincoln city and the United Kingdom reminds me of our shared brotherhood in humanity. Now I stand before you with gratitude, I feel I am the proudest of all. I  believe my potential has been unlocked and I believe I can achieve more. I am joyfully taking a powerful message of love, inspiration and motivation to my peers back home in Nigeria.   

Today is a very special day for us as graduates, it is also a great day to celebrate with our families, friends and lecturers whom have constantly pushed us towards achieving our best. It has been a long road, but we are finally here. As Drake said, “started from the bottom,  but now we are here”.

I remember three or  four years ago, when we all started, we were reffered to as freshers, but today we are called graduates. I remember many group discussions, assignments, presentations, dissertations and how our essays kept us awake in the night. To pass through this challenging times is rewarding, it will always remind us that with hardwork, dedication and efficiency, we can achieve what ever we dream of.

On behalf of my fellow graduants, I express profound gratitude to our tutors, friends and most especially our families for their unconditional support through our years at the University of  Lincoln. The tutors and university staff have been amazing, they were always available whenever we needed their assistance , guidance and encouragement. Without you all, we might not have made it here, graduating with happiness. We remain profoundly grateful for all your support.

To my class of 2017, I believe we all have brighter futures ahead of us. I know some of us are looking forward to getting our dream jobs, while some might continue their studies to Masters and PhD levels. Whatever plans you have for the future, I pray we all succeed. We can be whatever we want to be, we should always strive hard to achieve the best and nothing but the best. Do not be scared of failure and setbacks. Remain calm and focused, for the storm is only temporary. We have what it takes to change the world, wherever we find ourselves.

Once again,congratulations!