Thursday December 18, 2025
www.thenewsdesk.ng
The Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has charged Nigerian youths to cultivate bold dreams, while anchoring their journeys to success on humble beginnings, hard work, strong character, and unwavering faith in God.
The Governor gave the charge while delivering the Convocation Lecture at the 7th Convocation Ceremony of Mountain Top University, held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the institution’s campus along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Prayer City.
Speaking on the theme, “Dream Big, Start Small,” Governor Eno urged the graduating Class of 2025 to reject shortcuts and the entitlement mentality, and instead embrace discipline, service, resilience, and integrity as they navigate life beyond the university.
According to him, the modern world is shaped by rapid technological change and shifting values, making it imperative for young people to think creatively, act courageously, and pursue excellence with character.
“Dream big, start small, be passionate, work twice as hard, and watch the Invisible Hands of God lift you to heights you never imagined possible,” the Governor charged.
Governor Eno cautioned that the pursuit of instant gratification without corresponding effort often leads to frustration and moral decline. He, however, expressed strong confidence that the moral and intellectual foundation imparted by Mountain Top University would distinguish the graduands as leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.
Drawing inspiration from biblical and contemporary examples, the Governor explained that dreaming big provides vision and direction, while starting small builds capacity, confidence, and resilience.
He referenced the biblical story of Joseph, whose dream sustained him through adversity, as well as global business icons like Jeff Bezos, who started Amazon from a garage. He reminded the graduates that greatness often begins quietly, with what one already has.
“You don’t need to be great to start, but you need to start to be great,” he said, quoting motivational speaker Zig Ziglar.
“Dream big about impact. Start small with service. Grow steadily through character and competence.”
In a deeply personal moment, Governor Eno shared his life story — growing up as the son of a police officer who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, hawking soft drinks on the streets of Lagos to support his family, and later rising to become an entrepreneur and Governor.
He recounted how he started the Royalty Hotel in Eket with just five rooms in 1997, which grew into one of the largest hospitality conglomerates in Akwa Ibom State, employing thousands.
“My journey reinforces this message: faith in God, honesty, hard work, and moral discipline will always attract destiny helpers,” he noted.
The Governor stressed that success in the real world is not guaranteed by certificates alone, but by ethical conduct, humility, perseverance, and compassion, adding that while doors may close, faith and diligence will always open new paths.
He also highlighted the people-centred focus of his administration, describing governance as an extension of service. From the construction of over 335 Compassionate Homes for widows and the vulnerable, to monthly stipends for elders, food security programmes, healthcare reforms, and massive investments in education and youth development, Governor Eno said his leadership philosophy remains Christ-centred and human-focused.
Reaffirming the importance of education, he outlined key achievements under the ARISE Agenda, including free and compulsory education, bursaries, payment of external examination fees, model schools, youth-friendly centres, and plans for a Sports Academy to nurture talents.
As he concluded, Governor Eno urged the graduands not to confine their aspirations to conventional employment alone, but to explore innovation, entrepreneurship, and service as pathways to impact.
“Mountain Top University has equipped you with education, creative thinking, and moral values. Go out and win. Dream big, start small, and just start — God will lift you to the mountain top of your dreams.”
The lecture ended with a rousing call to faith, excellence, and purpose, as the Governor congratulated the Class of 2025 and wished them success in their future endeavours.
