Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his Bayelsa counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, were on Saturday awarded honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degrees in Social and Economic Development by the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, during the institution’s 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony.
Also honored at the ceremony were Senator James Manager, who received a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in National Development, and Engr. Ebipador Ogionwo, who was awarded a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in Industrial Development.
Represented at the ceremony by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerowho Tonukari, Governor Oborevwori expressed profound appreciation to the university for the recognition, describing it as a tribute to the resilience of the Delta people and the collective efforts of his administration.
“I receive this recognition not merely as a personal honour but as a tribute to the resilient spirit of our people, the tireless efforts of our administration, and the shared vision we hold for a more inclusive Delta State and a prosperous Nigeria,” the governor said.
He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and the entire university management, noting that the award affirms the institution’s commitment to recognizing leadership, service, and contributions to societal development.
“This award is especially meaningful, not only because it comes from a distinguished institution in the riverine heartland of our state but also because it affirms the enduring value of service, commitment, and belief in the transformative power of education,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s unwavering belief in education as the most enduring investment any government could offer its citizens.
He praised the NMU as a beacon of hope and a driver of development in communities historically marginalized.
“Since its establishment, the Nigerian Maritime University has provided world-class education in maritime studies and fostered human capital development essential to unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s blue economy,” he stated.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the institution, the governor noted the state’s continued support in partnership with the Federal Government to enhance security, improve infrastructure, and contribute to NMU’s overall development.
“Our administration, guided by the M.O.R.E Agenda, has supported key projects such as the construction and donation of a faculty complex and the development of a connecting road from the host community to the university’s permanent site,” he said.
Addressing the graduating students, Governor Oborevwori congratulated them and urged them to embody the values of excellence, integrity, and innovation instilled in them by the university.
“You are the torchbearers and future captains of a new era in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Be bold, dream big, work hard, and let your contributions reflect the excellence and pride of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko,” he encouraged.
Speaking further, Governor Oborevwori gave thanks to God, his family, and the people of Delta State for their unwavering support and pledged to remain committed to serving the state with humility, accountability, and dedication.
“Once again, I thank the Nigerian Maritime University for this remarkable recognition. May this institution continue to grow in excellence and impact, and may Delta State remain a beacon of progress and unity,” he concluded.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Emmanuel Adigio, stated that the 10th anniversary and second convocation of the institution mark a significant turning point for Nigeria’s premier maritime university.
He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the construction of a faculty building and the road linking Okerenkoko community to the university’s permanent site.
