The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has announced that a total of 11,713 students will graduate during its 54th Convocation Ceremony, with 167 students earning the prestigious First Class Honours in various academic disciplines.

The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the university’s Enugu campus on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, officially kicking off a week-long lineup of events to celebrate academic excellence and scholarly achievement at one of Nigeria’s foremost higher institutions.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, presented a detailed breakdown of the graduating students, expressing pride in what he described as a reflection of diligence, excellence, and institutional commitment to nurturing world-class graduates.

“These figures reflect the dedication and hard work of our students as well as the commitment of our faculty and staff,” he said.

Out of the 9,821 students graduating with first degrees and diplomas, the distribution is as follows: First Class Honours 167, Second Class Honours (Upper Division) 3,485, Second Class Honours (Lower Division) 5,217, Third Class Honours 739, Pass 33, Unclassified 180

In addition, 1,892 students will receive postgraduate diplomas and higher degrees, including: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) 616, Master of Science (M.Sc.) 1,101, Master of Business Administration (MBA) 133

Professor Ujam, whose six-month tenure as Acting Vice-Chancellor is set to conclude in August, commended both undergraduate and postgraduate students for their resilience in overcoming academic and personal challenges, especially amidst national educational disruptions in recent years.

As part of the convocation programme, a public lecture will be delivered on Thursday, July 24, by Mr. Ukandu Eme Ukandu, the Managing Director/CEO of Firstcap Limited and Chairman of First City Monument Bank (FCMB).

The lecture, titled “Educated to Rise: From Struggle to Global Strength,” is expected to draw reflections on the role of education in empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve global relevance.

Institutional Achievements and Outlook

Highlighting recent institutional developments, Professor Ujam revealed that his administration had established a Directorate of Grants and Scholarships, aimed at enhancing the university’s ability to attract research funding and support academically gifted but financially challenged students.

“The establishment of this directorate is a clear demonstration of our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering groundbreaking research. It will strengthen the university’s reputation as a hub of innovation, learning, and impact,” he noted.

He emphasized that with the right structures in place, UNN would continue to serve as a beacon of hope and excellence in Nigeria’s educational landscape.

Established in 1960 as the first indigenous university in Nigeria, the University of Nigeria has remained committed to its motto, “To Restore the Dignity of Man.” Over the decades, it has produced tens of thousands of graduates who have made their mark in various fields across the globe.

The 54th Convocation Ceremony reaffirms this legacy, with over 11,000 graduates set to join the university’s growing network of alumni making significant contributions to national development and global innovation.