By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Abraka, Delta State — Fresh hope filled the air at the Delta State University, Abraka, as 9,498 newly admitted students were formally inducted into the institution for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The matriculation ceremony, held on Saturday at the university campus, marked the official commencement of academic life for the students, who took the oath of allegiance as members of the university community.
Addressing the matriculants, the Vice Chancellor, Samuel Asagba, described their admission as a product of resilience and merit, noting that they were selected from a large pool of applicants who sought placement in the university.
“You have successfully crossed significant academic hurdles to earn your place here. This is a milestone that should inspire you to aim higher,” he said.
Asagba stated that the university’s reputation for maintaining a stable and uninterrupted academic calendar has continued to attract candidates from across the country. He noted that DELSU currently runs 17 faculties with 109 academic programmes, alongside an Institute of Education and a Business School.
He added that the management was working on expanding and strengthening academic offerings to meet the demands of modern society.
The vice chancellor reminded the students that matriculation is more than a ceremony, describing it as a rite of passage into a global intellectual community.
“By taking this oath, you are being formally admitted into an academic tradition that demands discipline, integrity and excellence,” he said.
He urged the new students to avoid examination malpractice, cultism and other vices capable of derailing their academic dreams, warning that the university maintains zero tolerance for activities that threaten campus peace.
“Peace is essential for meaningful academic pursuit. Any student found engaging in cult-related activities will face expulsion,” he warned.
Asagba explained that admissions into Nigerian universities are regulated by the National Universities Commission in partnership with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, limiting the number of candidates institutions can admit despite increasing demand.
He expressed appreciation to Sheriff Oborevwori for supporting the university’s growth and infrastructural development.
For many of the students and their families, the event symbolised the beginning of new possibilities. A matriculating student, Miss Amos Fejiro, said gaining admission into DELSU was a dream come true.
“I am proud to be part of this institution. I will remain focused and determined to succeed,” she said.
The ceremony highlighted the expanding access to higher education in Nigeria and the aspirations of thousands of young people determined to shape their futures through learning.