The National Universities Commission (NUC) has urged Nigerian graduates to look beyond academic certificates and focus on developing the competence, creativity and integrity needed to address national challenges and succeed in an increasingly competitive global workforce.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, gave the charge on Friday, October 16, 2026, during the fifth convocation ceremony of Trinity University in Yaba, Lagos.
Ribadu, who was represented by Dr Ayotelu Ogun of the NUC’s Lagos Liaison Office, emphasised that the value of university education should be measured not only by academic qualifications but also by the practical knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities graduates acquire.
He said universities must cultivate a strong culture of quality assurance that goes beyond meeting regulatory requirements and securing institutional accreditation.
“Quality assurance must transcend regulatory compliance and become an enduring institutional culture reflected in effective teaching, critical assessment, regular curriculum review, and demonstrable learning outcomes,” Ribadu stated.
According to him, maintaining high academic standards requires continuous improvements in teaching methods, curriculum development and the assessment of students’ learning outcomes.
The NUC chief also called on Nigerian universities to strengthen their relationships with employers and industry stakeholders to ensure that academic programmes respond more effectively to the needs of the economy.
He stressed that closer collaboration between universities and industry would help bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace demands, while creating opportunities to translate academic research into practical solutions.
Such partnerships, he noted, could improve graduate employability, encourage entrepreneurship and equip young Nigerians with the skills required to compete in changing labour markets.
Addressing the graduating class of 2026, Ribadu urged the graduates to apply their education in ways that produce meaningful results for their communities and the country.
His message comes amid continuing concerns about graduate unemployment, skills mismatches and the ability of Nigerian tertiary institutions to prepare students for a rapidly evolving economy.
As technology reshapes industries and employers increasingly seek demonstrable skills alongside formal qualifications, the NUC’s position highlights the importance of aligning university education with practical competencies, innovation and ethical leadership.
The challenge for universities, employers and policymakers will be to ensure that graduates leave their institutions equipped not only with certificates but also with the capabilities to create opportunities, solve problems and contribute to national development.