President Bola Tinubu has called on young graduates to embrace farming, vocational training, and information technology, emphasizing that the era of abundant white-collar jobs is over.

The president gave this advice in a goodwill message delivered at the 36th Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). The message, read by Florence Obi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, also highlighted the administration’s commitment to education and its role in driving Nigeria’s development.

Tinubu stressed the importance of quality education in addressing Nigeria’s challenges, describing it as a “catalyst for alleviating poverty and promoting economic growth.” He noted that education is one of the eight priority areas of his administration, alongside economy, security, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and health.

To further support tertiary education, Tinubu announced the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which has already allocated N33 billion for students’ tuition and upkeep loans, starting with six pilot universities across the country.

Tinubu urged graduates to rethink their career paths and leverage opportunities in agriculture and vocational training.

“The period of readily available white-collar jobs has faded away. I urge you to harness the potentials in agriculture, vocational skills, and Information Technology to add value to yourself and the nation,” he said.

The president also highlighted substantial investments made by the Federal Government to improve FUTO’s facilities and infrastructure, reflecting its broader commitment to tertiary education reform.

At the convocation ceremony, honorary doctorate degrees were conferred on First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum, in recognition of their contributions to national development.

Tinubu’s remarks reinforced the need for a shift in mindset among graduates, urging them to explore non-traditional paths to success while supporting Nigeria’s growth and self-reliance.