President Bola Tinubu has challenged Nigerian universities to embark on innovative research that can help boost production and diversify the nation’s economy.

Mr Tinubu gave the charge in Nsukka on Saturday during the 53rd convocation of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), while delivering his address as a visitor of the institution.

The convocation was for the conferment of postgraduate diplomas, higher degrees, the title of professor emeritus and the award of honorary degrees.

The president said universities should leverage the opportunities that abound in innovation and help turn around the nation’s economy.

“It is now common knowledge that research and innovation can grow the economy of a country faster than mineral deposits. I challenge all scholars in this university and other universities to embark on the specific innovative research that can help boost production and diversify our economy.

“As one of the premier universities, the UNN is expected to lead the way in this important quest for all-round excellence. I also challenge our universities to continue to emphasise training in entrepreneurship so that these graduates can become job creators instead of perennial job seekers.

“I have no doubt that Nigerian universities are very much able to find lasting solutions to problems faced by the country,” he said.

The president, who acknowledged that the educational system in the country required urgent reform, promised that his administration was giving it much-needed attention.

“The funding needed to revitalize the education system is much. It is, therefore, expedient that all hands must be on deck to assist the education sector,” the president said.

(NAN)