The Rivers State Government has pledged its firm and unwavering support to ensure the smooth and successful takeoff of the newly established Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET), Ogoniland.
This commitment was made on Wednesday by the Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), during a courtesy visit by the university’s Governing Council and Management team at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The high-level delegation, led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Professor Don Baridam, and the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedu Mmom, was received to formally present the new leadership and discuss areas of collaboration for the institution’s early operations.
In his address, Administrator Ibas congratulated the pioneer council and management on their appointments, describing their task as both a recognition of individual accomplishment and a historic call to duty.
“This is not just a recognition of your personal achievements but also a call to history to shape an institution that will have a profound impact on Rivers State, the Niger Delta, and indeed our country,” he stated.
The Administrator commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the specialized university in Ogoniland, describing the initiative as “timely and strategic.” He emphasized that the university’s presence offers a critical opportunity to drive research, innovation, and community-focused solutions to the region’s pressing environmental and developmental challenges.
He further noted that the university’s core focus aligns perfectly with the priorities of his administration.
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“We consider this university not merely as another institution of higher learning but as a strategic partner in our collective effort to rebuild Rivers State under the ongoing state of emergency and beyond,” he affirmed.
Responding to specific requests presented by the delegation, Administrator Ibas assured immediate state support in critical areas essential for the university’s commencement. These include the provision of operational vehicles, key facilities, and the completion of the access road to the campus. He added that other vital needs, such as perimeter fencing, refuse disposal, and the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, would be addressed within the framework of the state’s broader infrastructure and support programmes.
To ensure swift action, the Administrator directed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) to work closely with the university’s governing council to prioritize the sequence of requests, particularly those tied to the commencement of academic activities in September 2025.
“Let me assure you that Rivers State Government will stand as a dependable partner to the Federal University of Environment and Technology. We see this university as part of our long-term investment in knowledge, innovation, and the future of our youths,” he emphasized.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Don Baridam, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community development. He disclosed that the Federal Government has directed the institution to formally commence its academic session in September 2025, and preparations are in full swing to ensure a smooth take-off with adequate infrastructure and resources in place.
