The Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, on Saturday conferred honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degrees on the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and his Bayelsa State counterpart, Douye Diri, at the second combined convocation ceremony of the institution.
Also recognized were Senator James Manager, who received a Doctor of Science in National Development, and Ebipador Ogionwo, who was honoured with a Doctor of Science in Industrial Development.
Gov. Oborevwori, represented at the event by the state Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerowho Tonukari, expressed profound appreciation for the award.
He described it as a tribute to the resilience of the Delta people and the collective vision and hard work 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,” he stated.
The governor extended heartfelt gratitude to the chancellor, vice-chancellor, and the entire university management, describing the award as a reaffirmation of the institution’s commitment to recognizing leadership, service, and societal contributions.
“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,” the governor added.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education, Gov. Oborevwori noted that education remains the most enduring investment any government can offer its people.
He praised the institution as a beacon of hope and a critical catalyst for development, particularly in historically marginalized riverine communities.
“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 NMU, Gov. Oborevwori emphasized Delta State’s ongoing collaboration with the federal government to boost the institution’s growth through improved security, infrastructure, and developmental support.
“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.
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In his message to the graduating students, Gov. Oborevwori congratulated them and urged them to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and innovation instilled in them by NMU.
“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 charged.
He also expressed gratitude to God, his family, and the people of Delta State for their continuous support, pledging to remain devoted to serving 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.
Vice Chancellor of NMU, Prof. Emmanuel Adigio, in his remarks, highlighted the significance of the convocation, which coincided with the university’s 10th anniversary.
He commended Gov. Oborevwori for his contributions, particularly the construction of a faculty building and the road linking the Okerenkoko community to the university’s permanent site.