Former First Lady Patience Jonathan, widely known as “Mama Peace,” shared an inspiring story of perseverance and determination during a testimony at Streams of Joy International church on Sunday.
Her emotional journey to completing her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in psychology, guidance, and counseling left the congregation cheering and motivated.
“I thank God for completing my education,” she said, recounting her academic struggles and eventual triumph.
Earlier this month, Mrs. Jonathan received her PhD from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.
The former first lady, who previously held the position of First Lady of Nigeria, reflected on the challenges she faced while pursuing higher education.
Patience said, “When I went to pick up my PhD form, I thought I wouldn’t make it. I wondered, ‘What am I going to do with a PhD? I’ve already served as First Lady.’ But God told me to try. He said, ‘If your children can make it, why can’t you?’”
Her journey, which began with a National Certificate of Education (NCE) and continued with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and a Master’s, was far from easy.
“Three years felt like 40 years to me,” she admitted. But despite the doubts, she pressed on.
During her studies, she often found herself sitting alongside younger students, asking questions multiple times to fully understand the lessons.
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She said, “I wasn’t ashamed. I would raise my hands and ask questions because, as a Mama, I had to ask three times before I understood something. But before I knew it, God saw me through.”
She also shared how her lecturer sometimes frustrated her by asking her to repeat assignments.
“This man doesn’t know that I’m old. I’ll soon leave here to rest,” she joked, adding that she persisted because she knew the importance of keeping her mind sharp.
“I thought it was just to keep the brain moving, but to God be the glory, I graduated. What seemed impossible became possible,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude.
Her message to young Nigerians was clear: “If Patience can make it, you can make it too. There is no age limit in education. Whether you’re 10 or 100, you can succeed if you are determined,” she encouraged.
In closing, Mrs. Jonathan dedicated her achievement to Nigerian women, vowing to continue advocating for the vulnerable members of society, especially women, children, and youth. She promised to devote time to improving society and fostering dialogue to uplift others.