Legal scholar, Artificial Intelligence expert and philanthropist, Prof. Alexander Osondu Akpodiete, has identified education as a critical tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, calling for increased investment in the education of vulnerable children across Nigeria.
Akpodiete spoke after he was honoured at the graduation ceremony of students of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Durumi, Abuja, where he also participated in the commissioning of a new classroom block constructed to improve learning opportunities for displaced children.
He said despite being engaged in an intensive eight-hour daily Project Management Professional (PMP) training programme, he considered it important to attend the event and encourage the graduating students because of the life-changing impact of education.
Addressing the students, the professor described education as one of the greatest investments any individual could make, stressing that it remains one of the most reliable pathways out of poverty.
He urged the children to pursue careers that align with their interests, talents and purpose, rather than choosing professions based on external pressure or societal expectations.
According to him, individuals are more likely to achieve excellence when their passion aligns with their purpose.
Akpodiete noted that the resilience and determination displayed by the children underscored the need for governments, development partners and private organisations to strengthen support for displaced persons through sustained educational interventions.
He observed that while talent exists everywhere, access to opportunity remains uneven, making it imperative for stakeholders to work together to bridge the gap.
The philanthropist commended the Betharbel Foundation and its founder, Mrs. Agoro, for their commitment to expanding educational opportunities for internally displaced children through humanitarian initiatives.
He said the foundation’s interventions were restoring hope and providing children affected by displacement with the confidence and opportunity to build a better future.
Akpodiete also appealed to individuals, corporate organisations and development partners to support the foundation through financial contributions, donations of educational materials, mentorship, volunteer services and advocacy.
He maintained that every child deserves access to quality education regardless of background, adding that “a child’s beginning should never determine their destination.”
