By Peter Omopo
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his Bayelsa State counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, were on Saturday conferred with honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degrees in Social and Economic Development by the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, during the institution’s second combined convocation ceremony.
Also honoured at the event were Senator James Manager, who received a Doctor of Science in National Development, and Engr. Ebipador Ogionwo, who was conferred with a Doctor of Science in Industrial Development.
Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerowho Tonukari, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, describing it as a testament to the resilience of the Delta people and his administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
“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.
Oborevwori lauded the Nigerian Maritime University for acknowledging leadership and service, adding that the award underscored the institution’s dedication to societal progress. He described NMU as a “beacon of hope” and a “driver of development in historically marginalized communities.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to educational development, highlighting key interventions including the construction and donation of a faculty complex and the development of a connecting road between the host community and the university’s permanent site.
“Our administration, guided by the M.O.R.E Agenda, will continue to partner with the Federal Government to enhance security, upgrade infrastructure, and support NMU’s growth,” he added.
In his remarks, NMU Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Adigio, said the university’s 10th anniversary and second convocation represented a milestone in the evolution of Nigeria’s foremost maritime institution. He commended Governor Oborevwori for his contributions to the university’s infrastructural development.
The convocation marked a celebration of academic achievement and the institution’s growing impact on Nigeria’s maritime sector and broader economic landscape.
