Скачать или смотреть Clifford University Holds 6th Convocation in Grand Style, Davido, Cubana Chief Priest Steal The Show

It was a day of celebration, inspiration, and philanthropy at Clifford University, Owerrinta, Abia State, as the institution held the grand finale of its 6th Convocation Ceremony on Sunday, October 19, 2025, marking the climax of a four-day event that began on October 16.

The ceremony featured the conferment of degrees, awards, and prizes on outstanding students and drew an impressive audience of dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and abroad.

The event began with the traditional Academic, Council, and Chancellor’s processions, led by the Mace Bearer and principal officers of the university. Present at the occasion were the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Basic Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi; the General Vice President of the General Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, USA, Pastor (Prof.) Robert Osei-Bonsu; the Chancellor and President, West-Central Africa Division of the SDA Church, Pastor (Prof.) Bassey Udoh; Pro-Chancellor, Pastor (Dr.) Ezekiel Adeleye; Deputy Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Istifanus Ishaya; and the Commencement Speaker, Nigerian Afrobeats superstar, Davido (David Adeleke).

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor Chimezie A. Omeonu, outlined the institution’s remarkable growth since its founding in 2017.
He revealed that Clifford University has expanded from three to six faculties, housing 30 academic departments and 34 degree programmes, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and moral discipline.

Prof. Omeonu also celebrated the ongoing Law accreditation process and acknowledged the significant impact of philanthropist Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, founder of the Springtime Development Foundation, who currently sponsors over 300 Clifford University students on full scholarships.

Taking the podium to deliver the commencement address titled “LISU — Lift Somebody Up,” Davido charged the graduating students to lead with purpose, passion, and compassion.

“Knowledge alone is not enough; it is what you do with it that matters,” he said. “Be proud of who you are, where you come from, and what you can achieve. The world is waiting for your impact.”

His words drew a standing ovation as he shared lessons from his life, urging the graduates to “stay consistent, keep evolving, and use their gifts to touch lives.”

Davido attended the ceremony with his sister Mrs. Sophia Adeleke, his associate Mr. Latti, and close friend Cubana Chief Priest (Pascal Okechukwu), whose appearance added extra glamour to the occasion.

In a powerful show of generosity, Cubana Chief Priest announced a scholarship pledge to sponsor 50 students across all faculties of Clifford University.

“My friendship with Davido is proof that there’s no such thing as tribalism when there’s love,” he said. “The Adeleke family supports education beyond their own university, and I am proud to join that vision.”

His announcement was greeted with thunderous applause, earning him praise from both the university community and guests for his philanthropy and humility.

The event reached an emotional peak when Davido joined university officials to commission the Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel, built in honour of his late mother. He described the project as a continuation of her legacy of love and empowerment for young women.

Awards were presented to graduates who excelled academically and morally, reflecting the university’s holistic approach to education. The ceremony closed with heartfelt thanksgiving and jubilation, as students, staff, and guests celebrated Clifford University’s continued rise as one of Nigeria’s most reputable faith-based institutions.

The 6th Convocation of Clifford University will be remembered as a fusion of faith, education, music, and philanthropy — a day when stars and scholars stood side by side to celebrate the power of knowledge, legacy, and love.