Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has attributed his continuation in office after the six-month emergency rule to the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to fully funding the state-owned university and supporting its staff and students.

The governor made the remarks while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining the funding for Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s education sector. He spoke during the combined 37th and 38th convocation of the university on Saturday.

Addressing challenges raised by the RSU management, Fubara noted that many issues would not have arisen if democracy had not been temporarily interrupted in the state.

“Like you said, a report was given to us. But you all know what happened in the life of our administration. It is only by the special grace of God, the special favour from Mr President, that we are standing here still as the ones presiding over the affairs of Rivers State,” he said.

Fubara assured stakeholders that his administration would resume full responsibilities, pledging to address the complaints raised during the convocation.

He outlined funding priorities that include closing infrastructural gaps, enhancing security, and improving the welfare of students and staff.

He added that satellite campuses outside Port Harcourt facing operational challenges would receive accelerated attention in 2026.

“We will continue to fulfil our financial obligations to the university, ensuring improved infrastructure as well as the security and welfare of staff and students. Education remains the most vital investment for national development,” Fubara said.

The governor praised RSU’s growth, highlighting its commitment to quality education, intellectual development, and leadership training aligned with state and national development goals. He encouraged the university leadership to intensify research and innovation to address socio-economic challenges in Rivers State and Nigeria.

Fubara congratulated the 13,242 graduates of the combined convocation, which included first degrees, diplomas, and certificates. He also thanked parents, guardians, the Governing Council, and staff for their contributions to the students’ success.

He urged graduates to seize emerging opportunities in the state and nationwide, emphasising entrepreneurship, creative problem-solving, integrity, and perseverance.

“As you step into the future, let integrity, hard work, and honesty guide you. Cherish the sacrifices made for your education and live a life of purpose, kindness, and compassion,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, expressed delight presiding over his first convocation since his March 6, 2025, appointment by Governor Fubara. He highlighted progress under his administration, including accommodation for 40,000 students and full accreditation for all programmes.

Of the 13,242 graduates, 10,648 received first degrees, 2,594 completed postgraduate programmes, 157 earned First Class honours, 2,587 received Second Class Upper, and 6,275 were awarded Second Class Lower degrees.

The Chancellor, HRH Dr Sidi Mohammad, praised Governor Fubara for making RSU one of the best-funded public universities in Nigeria and urged universities to embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance learning while maintaining academic integrity.

Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman, Hon. Okey Wali, SAN, commended Fubara’s strong funding support, which he said significantly boosted RSU’s operational capacity. Wali unveiled a five-year Strategic Development Plan (2026–2030) aimed at transforming RSU into a globally recognised institution. The plan includes translating research into marketable products, restructuring administration with a third Deputy Vice-Chancellor position, and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, extortion, and sexual harassment. (The PUNCH)

Update news