Former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has attributed his rise to national recognition to years spent challenging the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan while serving as an opposition spokesperson.
Mohammed, who held the information portfolio for eight years under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, shared the reflection on Friday during the convocation lecture at Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State. The lecture, titled “Don’t just graduate, innovate,” formed part of activities marking the university’s 15th convocation.
Addressing the graduating students, Mohammed encouraged them to embrace persistence and not to fear setbacks, noting that personal resilience had defined his political trajectory, especially during the Peoples Democratic Party’s dominance between 2006 and 2015.
He recounted how he became a prominent voice for the Action Congress, Action Congress of Nigeria, and later the All Progressives Congress through consistent, research-based media engagements that shaped national debates. According to him, frequent press statements, interviews, and conferences positioned the opposition as a strong alternative to the government of the day.
Mohammed further revealed that his outspokenness came with personal sacrifices, citing arrests and harassment by security agencies. Despite the challenges, he said he remained undeterred.
At the event, the Pro-Chancellor of Achievers University, Prof. Bode Ayorinde, reiterated the institution’s commitment to upholding academic and disciplinary standards. He disclosed that some students had recently been expelled for poor performance and misconduct, stressing that the university does not compromise on integrity.
Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oyesoji Aremu, praised the convocation lecture and highlighted the university’s emphasis on innovation. He noted that Achievers University is focused on producing graduates capable of creating opportunities and finding solutions beyond their academic certificates.
