A seasoned university administrator, Mrs. Margaret Boro, has urged young administrative officers to embrace resilience, strive for excellence, and maintain unwavering commitment in their careers.

She stated this in an emotionally-charged Valedictory Lecture at her send-off/retirement ceremony held on October 10, 2024 at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) headquarters in Abuja.

The ceremony was organised by the registry staff of the university.

Mrs. Boro, while reflecting on her decades-long journey, emphasised that success in administration often demands patience, perseverance, and the ability to withstand political and institutional challenges.

She said "Always take every challenge as a stepping stone to greater ground, and serve with diligence and commitment, wherever you find yourself. 

"Strive for excellence in any task assigned to you, as your good works will announce you to your world.

"Remember tough times don’t last, but tough people do."

Drawing from personal experiences that spanned multiple transitions and challenging assignments, she highlighted how perseverance helped her overcome periods of uncertainty and career setbacks, including being left without an office at one point when her posting as the Director of the Lafia Study Centre was rescinded due to local opposition.

"Perfection is only from God; all institutions have their ups and downs," she remarked, adding that every role, no matter how challenging, served to refine her character and skills.

The retiring officer also expressed gratitude for the commendations and recognitions she received, notably the Special Certificate of Commendation personally signed by a former Vice-Chancellor of the university. 

"In whatever you are doing, people are watching, so stay committed and persevere," she advised.

Boro expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, and the university community for their support throughout her career.

Earlier, while giving his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, represented by the Director of Research and Administration, Prof. Sam Ayodele, stated that Mrs. Boro has been a guiding light for many and an inspiration, instilling values of integrity, perseverance, and kindness.

“In all the units and directorates, she has headed, she consistently demonstrated what it means to be a leader, whether through mentoring new employees, driving innovative projects, or simply lending an ear to those in need," the VC said.

Speaking at the ceremony, the university's Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, expressed the deep admiration and appreciation felt by the entire NOUN community for Mrs. Boro's remarkable contributions to the university.

Ajayi noted that Mrs. Boro’s career at NOUN has been a testament to passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, from her early days as the Study Centre Director at Wuse II to her pivotal role as Director at the Kaduna Campus and a Director of Staff Training and Development, playing key roles in strengthening the university’s operations and fostering a culture of professional growth.

“You have labored for this university, and today, we celebrate your labour of love, thank you for everything—for your wisdom, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment. Congratulations on this milestone, Ma. 

"We rejoice with you and wish you nothing but joy and fulfillment in the years to come,” he added.

A wave of goodwill messages and tributes flowed as friends, colleagues, and family members celebrated Mrs. Margaret Boro and various representatives of the NOUN family, expressing their gratitude and admiration for her years of service and leadership and reflecting on her dedication, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Despite her retirement, the speakers urged her to continue to share her knowledge and experience, noting that “experience and wisdom never retire.”

Until her retirement, Boro was the Director NOUN- Service Compact with All Nigerians (SERVICOM-NOUN).