PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Patience Jonathan, wife of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Psychology, Guidance and Counselling from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.
The former First Lady made the announcement during the university’s 43rd Postgraduate Convocation Ceremony held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a speech delivered at the event, she encouraged Nigerians—particularly women and young people—to view education as a continuous journey and to never consider age as a limitation.
“I feel that no age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old,” she said.
“If I can do it, you can also do it.”
Jonathan emphasised the importance of ongoing education, even after retirement, stating that returning to the classroom offers individuals the opportunity to refresh their minds and acquire new knowledge.
“I believe that even in retirement, you are not too old to go back to school because education provides the opportunity for one to always refresh his or her brain and learn new things,” she said.
Jonathan dedicated her academic achievement to Nigerian women and reaffirmed her long-standing commitment to advocating for the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and the youth.
She pledged to intensify her efforts in championing educational access and social inclusion, saying, “Let me use this opportunity to encourage Nigerian women and the youth to aspire to become the best of themselves through qualitative education.”
Reflecting on the journey to her doctorate, Jonathan expressed gratitude to her family, particularly her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, for his encouragement and support.
“First of all, I am very grateful to the Almighty God who has made today a reality. He saw me through the programme so I am very happy today,” she said.
“I also thank my family sincerely, especially my lovely husband, His Excellency Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for all his support and very useful suggestions.”
She also praised her children for their understanding and support throughout the duration of the programme, as well as friends and well-wishers who encouraged her along the way.
