Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved the appointment of Professor Samuel Ovuete Aghalino as the new Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, marking a new phase in the leadership of the state-owned institution.
The appointment, announced in Asaba on March 6, 2026, places the respected historian and academic administrator at the helm of the university established in 2021 to expand access to tertiary education across the state.
Professor Aghalino, currently a Professor of History at University of Ilorin, is widely known for his scholarly contributions to Nigerian historical studies, particularly research examining the social and environmental impact of oil and gas exploration. His academic work has also explored governance, environmental policy and development issues within Nigeria’s resource-rich regions.
Beyond his research record, Aghalino has played an influential role in the academic community, having previously served as President of the Historical Society of Nigeria, one of the country’s leading professional bodies for historians.
His appointment follows the tenure of the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Professor Ben Emukufia Akpoyamare Oghojafor, who has led the university since its establishment. Under the pioneer administration, the institution has gradually expanded its academic structure, staffing and programme offerings.
In late 2025, the university strengthened its management team with the appointment of Professor Joyce Ogho Ogwezi as Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, part of broader efforts to reinforce governance and institutional capacity.
Read also:
- Niboro hails Gov. Oborevwori for uniting Delta APC, saving it from collapse
- My performance ends opposition in Delta — Oborevwori
- Just in: Gov. Oborevwori names Prof. Awhefeada as vice-chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro
Sources within the Delta State Government indicated that the selection of the new Vice Chancellor followed a detailed screening process that placed emphasis on merit, experience in university leadership and the need for steady academic guidance as the institution continues to develop.
Located in Asaba, the state capital, Dennis Osadebay University was created to increase higher education opportunities for young Nigerians and provide specialised academic programmes that support national development.
Education stakeholders across Delta State have welcomed the appointment, expressing confidence that Aghalino’s experience in research, academic administration and professional associations will strengthen the university’s research culture and international collaborations.
Governor Oborevwori has repeatedly emphasised the importance of improving tertiary education across the state, with recent policy efforts aimed at strengthening institutions such as Delta State University in Abraka and expanding academic infrastructure.
