By Peter Onyekachukwu 
…Lauds UNIDEL’s Rapid Growth
Immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for sustaining and expanding access to higher education in the state, describing the continued support for state-owned universities as a strategic investment in the future of Delta youths.
Okowa gave the commendation at the maiden convocation ceremony of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, where he spoke on behalf of other award recipients.
He noted that the consolidation of the universities established in 2021 reflects policy continuity and a firm commitment to human capital development.
The former governor said the institutions have continued to flourish under Oborevwori’s leadership, attributing their stability and progress to consistent engagement, funding support, and responsive governance.
“I will always acknowledge your role,” Okowa said, adding that the universities are thriving because they benefit from sustained attention and encouragement from the state government.
He described the graduation of more than 1,600 students at the university’s first convocation as a significant milestone, stating that it demonstrates the success of efforts aimed at widening educational opportunities.
According to him, the steady rise in student enrolment shows that the additional universities have created pathways for thousands of young people who might otherwise have struggled to secure admission.
Okowa also applauded UNIDEL’s rapid institutional growth, peaceful learning environment, and positive impact on its host communities.
He highlighted the absence of student unrest over the past five years as evidence of sound administration and constructive student engagement.
He further recognised the contributions of key stakeholders, including Dr. Chris Maiyaki and former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, for their support in the university’s foundational phase.
A total of 17 distinguished Nigerians were honoured with Recognition Awards for their roles in the establishment and development of the University.
Among the recipients were Governor Oborevwori, who is Visitor to the University; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia; and Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chiedu Ebie.
The convocation ceremony also witnessed a notable academic achievement, with 30 graduates earning First Class degrees, a development widely seen as an affirmation of academic quality in the young institution.
University authorities said the performance of the pioneer graduating class reflects the strength of its teaching, research, and mentorship structures.
With the release of its first set of graduates, UNIDEL’s maiden convocation marked both a celebration of academic excellence and a clear indication of the university’s growing stature within Nigeria’s higher education system.