By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has matriculated a total of 9,097 students for the 2025/2026 academic session, charging them to shun drug and substance abuse, examination malpractice, and all forms of social vices.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, gave the charge on Friday at the matriculation ceremony held at the university’s Felele Campus, urging the new students to embrace discipline, focus, and excellence.
Prof. Akinwumi said the matriculants had successfully met the requirements of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) as well as the university’s internal screening process, describing the admission exercise as highly competitive.
According to him, the number of admitted students reflects FUL’s firm commitment to merit, quality education, and academic excellence.
He explained that the oath taken during the matriculation ceremony morally and legally binds the students to the rules, regulations, and constituted authority of the university, stressing that violations would attract appropriate sanctions.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the ceremony held special significance for him, as it marks the last set of students admitted under his administration as the third Vice-Chancellor of the institution, with his tenure ending in February.
“I receive you with a deep sense of fulfilment and pride. I am confident that you will build upon the solid foundations laid by this administration and fully embrace our philosophy that the sky is our limit,” he said.
Prof. Akinwumi reminded the students that university education comes with responsibility, accountability, and discipline, urging them to take their academic work seriously.
“Please, note that any student with less than 75 per cent class attendance shall not be eligible to sit for examinations at the end of each semester. “Attendance is not optional; it is mandatory, the VC advised”
He also cautioned against examination misconduct, noting that the university has zero tolerance for malpractice and that penalties for such offences are severe.
The Vice-Chancellor further advised the students to stay away from drug and substance abuse, while emphasizing that the institution maintains strict standards on decent dressing and appearance.
“Decency reflects discipline, and discipline is the pathway to success. You are therefore required to comply fully with the approved dress code at all times,” he said.
Prof. Akinwumi urged the students to be security conscious, avoid violent protests, and embrace dialogue as a means of resolving grievances, while also encouraging participation in sports and recreational activities.
He called on them to make good use of the sacrifices made by their parents and guardians by shunning deviant behaviour and remaining focused on their purpose in the university.
“Remain focused on why you are here; to learn, to grow, and to prepare for the future. Do not be an NFA—No Future Ambition student. Have a vision, set goals, and pursue them with diligence.
He asked them to imbibe what the great philosopher Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit”, adding, “Your future begins here and now.” (Ends)
