Former First Lady, Patience Jonathan’s Homily

Patience Jonathan was known for being vocal and outspoken during her time as First Lady. Her speeches were often laced with humour, leaving audiences in stitches. Because of her distinctive style and memorable presence, she remains unarguably one of the most popular First Ladies the country has ever had.

However, her comics were not the only thing that put her in the spotlight. She is also known as powerful, influential and highly connected. When her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, held the reins of power, her words were law. And before our very eyes, Mrs. Jonathan, fondly called Mama Peace, rose from obscurity to prominence. She was surrounded by hangers-on during that time, many seeking to glean from her well of knowledge.

But soon after her husband left office, she went underground, making many wonder about her whereabouts. What they didn’t know, however, was that she was acquiring more knowledge.

In her characteristic humorous style, the former First Lady delivered yet another memorable homily last week, revealing how she nearly abandoned her pursuit of a doctorate in Philosophy due to intense academic pressure and moments of self-doubt.

Speaking during a testimony at Streams of Joy International Church, the former First Lady, who recently bagged a PhD in Psychology, Guidance and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, shared her challenging academic journey.

According to her, the rigours of postgraduate study — including repeated assignments and high expectations from lecturers — almost made her give up.

She also admitted that her initial motivation to pursue the degree was shaky, especially considering her past status as Nigeria’s First Lady.

Despite being the oldest student in her class, she was never ashamed to ask questions—often multiple times—to understand.

She narrated how she would sit on the bench with other students, not older than her children. “I was the ‘Mama’ in class, and I wasn’t ashamed,” she said. “The younger ones understood quickly, but as a ‘Mama’, I had to ask three times to grasp one thing,” she added jokingly.

Her testimony has since inspired many, showcasing the power of perseverance, humility, and lifelong learning, regardless of age or status.