Nigerian music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has inaugurated a female hostel at Clifford University, Owerrinta, Abia State, in memory of his late mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke.
The event took place during the university’s 6th convocation ceremony, where Davido described the project as a tribute to his mother’s lasting impact as an educationist and philanthropist.
“My mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, was a teacher and giver who believed education and compassion could change lives. This building is a continuation of her purpose, turning love into legacy,” Davido said.
Delivering a commencement address titled “Lift Somebody Up,” Davido urged the graduating class to uphold values of integrity, hard work, and compassion as they pursue success.
He stressed that “knowledge alone is not enough; it is what you do with it that matters,” encouraging graduates to innovate and make meaningful contributions to society.
The ceremony also featured a ribbon-cutting event, led by Davido alongside his siblings, Adewale and Ashley Adeleke, officially opening the Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chimezie A. Omeonu, in his convocation address, reviewed the university’s growth since its establishment in 2017 — from three faculties and ten departments to six faculties and thirty-four accredited programmes, including Law and Nursing Science.
He praised the Nursing Department for its outstanding results in national examinations, recording a 100 per cent pass rate in Registered Midwifery and 81.71 per cent in Registered Nursing, surpassing the national average.
Professor Omeonu also expressed gratitude to philanthropists supporting the institution, especially Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, founder of the Springtime Development Foundation, which currently sponsors over 300 students at the university.
In a related gesture, entertainment entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, announced a pledge to pay school fees for 50 students across various faculties.
He commended Clifford University’s commitment to academic excellence, moral discipline, and service to humanity.
The President of the Apex Graduating Class of 2025, Miss Ozazibe Avwerosuo Precious, described the event as the culmination of “years of dedication and growth,” urging her peers to live by their class motto — “We lead. We inspire. We achieve.”
Dignitaries present included Pastor (Professor) Robert Osei-Bonsu, General Vice-President of the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, USA; Pastor (Professor) Bassey Udoh, Chancellor and President of the West-Central Africa Division; Pastor (Dr.) Ezekiel Adeleye, Pro-Chancellor; and Professor Istifanus Ishaya, Deputy Pro-Chancellor.
