Emmanuel Daudu
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social work education in Nigeria, as the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, Enugu State, held its 5th Matriculation Ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The ceremony, which took place on Thursday, January 8, 2026, marked the formal admission of new students into the institution and underscored the growing importance of social work in addressing Nigeria’s social and developmental challenges.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, emphasized the critical role of social workers in tackling issues such as poverty, inequality and social injustice.
Represented by the Director of the Social Development Department, Mr. Valentine Ezulu, the Permanent Secretary noted that investing in social work education is a direct investment in the nation’s future.
“As we gather here today, we are reminded of the critical role social workers play in addressing the complex challenges facing our nation,” he said, adding that the Ministry remains committed to supporting the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, in producing highly skilled professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Provost of the School, Mr. Chris Ajibola, highlighted the relevance of social work to Nigeria’s development and assured students of the institution’s dedication to their academic and professional growth.
Delivering the matriculation lecture, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Ndidi Ozofor, described social work practice in Nigeria as an uphill task, largely due to a shortage of professional social workers and persistent societal challenges.
He referenced Decree No. 12 of 1974, which formally established social welfare services and social development programmes in Nigeria, and stressed the need to equip students with the requisite skills and knowledge to navigate the realities of the profession.
Also speaking at the event, the representative of the paramount ruler of the host community, Chief Aneke Jerome, commended the institution for promoting social work education and pledged the continued support of the community.
A representative of the matriculating students, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, appealed to the school authorities to provide an enabling environment for effective learning.
He identified areas requiring attention, including infrastructure maintenance, payment of staff salaries, utilities, publicity and awareness, as well as students’ representation at national and international levels.
The high point of the ceremony was the administration of the oath of allegiance, during which the new students pledged to abide by the rules and regulations of the institution and uphold the core values of the social work profession in service to national development.
In his closing remarks, an Assistant Director in the Ministry’s Social Development Department, Mr. Akin Alesinloye, expressed confidence in the future impact of the students.
He stated that the graduates of the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, would go on to make significant contributions to the lives of Nigerians and the overall development of the country.
The matriculation ceremony, which featured a procession of academic staff and students led by the Registrar and the Provost, attracted dignitaries from government, the host community and other stakeholders.
The Ministry congratulated the students and the institution, expressing optimism about their role in advancing social development in Nigeria.
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