Patience Jonathan (PhD), Nigeria’s former First Lady, has opened up about her challenging yet rewarding journey toward obtaining a doctoral degree. She described her three-year academic pursuit as one of the toughest experiences of her life but also among the most fulfilling.
Speaking during a testimony and thanksgiving service at Streams of Joy International, led by Pastor Jerry Eze, Mrs. Jonathan revealed that her PhD journey initially seemed impossible, especially after her time as Nigeria’s First Lady.
“When I went to pick up the PhD 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 recounted.
Despite her age and initial doubts, Patience Jonathan said she pushed through intensive coursework, constant travels, and the challenge of studying alongside younger classmates.
“I wasn’t ashamed. When the teacher was teaching, I raised my hand and asked questions. The younger ones understood quickly, but for me, Mama, I had to ask three times before I understood once. But I kept going,” she said.
Encouraging Nigerians to embrace lifelong learning regardless of age, she added:
“There is no age limit in education. Whether you are 100 years old or 10 years old, you can make it. Just sit like me. Be determined, and you will succeed.”
The former First Lady said her decision to pursue a PhD was influenced by her children, who had prayed that she would attend Streams of Joy Church. Over time, she felt spiritually led to take on the academic challenge.
“That thing that seemed impossible, God made 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,” she said joyfully.
Beyond her personal testimony, Patience Jonathan called for national unity and collective effort in rebuilding Nigeria:
“Nigeria belongs to all of us. 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.”
She also thanked Pastor Jerry Eze for his spiritual guidance, stating that his sermons and daily prayers had given her the strength to persevere through her academic challenges.
