Former First Lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan, has opened up about the trials and triumphs of her academic journey, describing her pursuit of a doctoral degree as one of the toughest yet most rewarding chapters of her life.
Jonathan earned a doctor of philosophy degree in psychology, guidance and counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.
Speaking on Sunday during a testimony and thanksgiving service at Streams of Joy International, led by Pastor Jerry Eze, Patience said the three-year academic process felt like forty years due to the physical, emotional and mental challenges she faced.
“When I went to pick up the Ph.D form, I asked myself, ‘What am I going to do with this now that I have finished as first lady?’ But God told me, If these young children can make it, why can’t you? So, I tried. Honestly, those three years felt like forty,” she said.
The former First Lady explained that despite her age and initial doubts, she persevered through rigorous coursework, frequent travel and the experience of sitting in classrooms alongside much younger students.
“I wasn’t ashamed, though. When the teacher was teaching, I raised my hand and asked questions. The younger ones understood things quickly, but me, Mama, I had to ask three times before I understood one. I kept going. I wasn’t afraid to learn,” she added.
Patience used her experience to encourage others never to allow age to hinder their pursuit of knowledge.
“There is no age limit in education. You are 100 years old, you can make it. You are 10 years old, you can make it. Just sit like me. Be determined, and you will succeed.”
She recounted how her PhD journey began reluctantly but eventually became a divine calling. According to her, her children had prayed that she would attend Streams of Joy Church and over time she yielded to both their wishes and God’s direction.
“I thank God for His doings in my life and my family. That thing that seemed impossible, God made it possible. Last week was my graduation. I give God the glory. If I, Patience, can make it, then you, especially the younger ones, can do even better.”
Beyond her academic testimony, the former First Lady called for national unity and collective efforts in rebuilding Nigeria. She urged religious leaders to remain prayerful and encouraged citizens to work together for the nation’s progress.
“This is Nigeria. Nigeria belongs to all of us. And we will work together to make Nigeria great. One person alone cannot do it. It’s all of us, joining hands, that will make this country succeed.”
Patience Jonathan concluded by expressing gratitude to Pastor Jerry Eze for his spiritual leadership, noting that his sermons and early morning prayers helped her stay strong during her academic journey.
