Abuja: The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has advised the Federal Government to implement inclusive, long-term education policies to uphold moral standards and drive sustainable national development. Ndukuba gave the advice on Sunday in Abuja during the second graduation ceremony of the Anglican International Academy (AIA), Zhidu, where 57 senior secondary students passed out.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ndukuba, represented by the Venerable Andrus Ukaejiofor (Rtd), expressed that education without sound moral grounding and integrity would only exacerbate societal ills, particularly corruption. He emphasized that true national transformation begins with individual character development, which can only be nurtured when policies prioritize holistic growth rather than short-term gains. He stated, “Today, our society is deeply challenged by corruption, but corruption starts with an individual. If an individual lacks integrity, he will act without virtue, but when integrity is instilled, value and character naturally follow.”
Ndukuba further emphasized the goal of ensuring high-quality education where children are disciplined and encouraged to become positive contributors to society. He mentioned that by integrating biblical teachings into academics, the Church is imparting divine wisdom to build a society anchored on honour.
Addressing recent curriculum adjustments, the cleric expressed concern over the perceived dilution of educational standards and the exclusion of religious studies from school curricula. He called on the authorities to engage in broad consultations with key stakeholders, including faith-based organisations and parents, before introducing major policy decisions. He remarked, “Sometimes, policies seem to focus on short-sighted outcomes rather than the ultimate end. When you water down standards just to accommodate certain groups, you bring down value. Removing God’s presence from the lives of children creates an undisciplined society without self-control.”
Ndukuba urged the graduating students to remain steadfast in their faith, view themselves as agents of societal transformation, and avoid moral compromises as they transition into tertiary institutions. Also speaking, the Principal of AIA, Venerable Nelson Akinwande, highlighted the institution’s commitment to raising well-rounded individuals who excel academically, spiritually, and vocationally. In line with federal directives on technical education, the school equips all students with practical vocational skills, including shoemaking, tailoring, bag craft, paint production, and confectionery art.
During his formal graduation address titled ‘Equipped for Purpose, Empowered for Impact: Raising Godly Agents of Transformation’, Akinwande reminded the 57 graduands that humanity was created for divine assignments. He urged them to let the core values of excellence, faith, and integrity guide their conduct in higher institutions. “As you proceed toward higher education, never let go of the values that have shaped you here. Excellence, faith, and integrity are your compass,” Akinwande said.
The ceremony featured awards, cultural displays, and special prayers for the outgoing students as they prepare for higher academic pursuits.