04/05/2026
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY HIS ROYAL MAJESTY FRIDAY ODINI ABAJA ON THE AWARD OF HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Your Excellency,
The Vice-Chancellor, distinguished members of the Governing Council and Senate of Delta State University,
Esteemed faculty, honoured guests, ladies and gentlemen,
I stand before you today with a heart filled with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of honour as I accept this prestigious Doctorate Degree in Business Administration.
This recognition, bestowed upon me by the esteemed governing body of Delta State University, is one I do not take lightly. I am profoundly grateful to the Governing Council, the Senate, and the entire academic community for finding me worthy of such distinction. Your confidence in my modest contributions to education and community development is both humbling and inspiring.
As a traditional ruler, I receive this honour not for myself alone, but on behalf of my kingdom and my people. In our culture, we say, “one hand does not lift a heavy load.” Whatever we have achieved in advancing education, empowering our youth, and fostering community growth has been through collective effort and shared vision.
Education remains the greatest pillar upon which any progressive society is built. It has always been my firm belief that when you educate a child, you empower a generation. This belief has guided my commitment to supporting initiatives that nurture knowledge, discipline, and leadership.
However, as we celebrate progress, we must also reflect with sincerity. There is still much to be done. I respectfully call on our political leaders and policymakers to do more in raising and improving the standard of education within the state and across our nation. Education must never be treated as an afterthought, but as the very foundation of sustainable development.
We must also confront the reality that corruption has, over time, hindered meaningful progress and impacted negatively on the quality of education in our state and in Nigeria at large. When resources meant for education are not properly utilized, it is the future of our children that is placed at risk. Therefore, there must be a renewed commitment to accountability, transparency, and integrity in all matters concerning education.
I therefore wish to assure this great institution, Delta State University, of my continued support and partnership. As a beneficiary of this honour, I consider it both a privilege and a duty to contribute to the growth, development, and advancement of the university. Together, we shall continue to uphold education as a beacon of hope and transformation.
To the students, I encourage you to remain focused and steadfast. The journey to greatness is not without its trials, but perseverance, discipline, and integrity will always lead to honour. Let your knowledge not only elevate you but also serve your communities and our nation.
As I accept this honour today, I am reminded that leadership is a call to greater responsibility. I recommit myself to the service of humanity, to the promotion of education, and to the continuous development of our communities.
Once again, I extend my deepest appreciation to the governing body and the entire management of Delta State University for this distinguished honour.
May this great institution continue to flourish and remain a shining light of excellence.
Thank you, and may God bless you all.
