Professor Ufuophu-Biri To Chair Oasis Magazine Awards November

By Daniel Dafe

Organisers of the ‘Distinguished Nigerian Awards’ (DISNA 2024), have announced that Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Delta State and a Professor of Mass Communication and Journalism at the Delta State University, Abraka, will chair this year’s event to hold November in Asaba.

The much anticipated event put together by Oasis Magazine will hold at the Opal Event Center, along Jesus Saves Road, Asaba, Delta State.

Chairman, Planning Committee, Christian Eghenedji, who disclosed this in a statement, hinted that the rector has played a key role in the emergence of Oasis Magazine as a celebrated media brand in the state and beyond and so was unanimously chosen by the Planning Committee to play the role of chairman.

He added: “In the coming weeks, we will be giving more information regarding the event. All hands are on deck and it will surely be a great event.”

Professor Ufuophu-Biri holds a PhD in Communication Arts from the University of Ibadan, MA (Distinction) Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsukka; a master’s degree in industrial and Labour Relations, Delta State University, Abraka; B.A (Hons.) Mass Communication, Delta State University, Abraka; Advanced Diploma and Ordinary Diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos; Certificate in Digital Humanities, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; Certificate in TV and Film Camera Operations from the then NTA Headquarters, Victoria Island, Lagos.

ALSO READ: Bishop David Oyedepo At 70: A Perspective

Professor Ufuophu-Biri’s leadership acumen is evident in his various appointments within and outside the University system.

He was Director of Academic Planning, Pre-Degree Programme Director, HOD of Mass Communication, and Deputy Dean of Student Affairs at Delta State University, Abraka.

During his tenure as the Head of the Department, he produced the first set of First-Class graduates—six First-Class graduates in total. He also established the M.Sc. and PhD programmes in the Department, obtained a full operational NBC License for the University radio station, and secured full accreditation for the Department.

Professor Ufuophu-Biri’s contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. His invitation to the USA by the US Government to participate in the USA International Visitors’ Leadership Programme (IVLP) as the Distinguished African Broadcast Journalist Lecturer 2009 is a testament to his global influence. He was also invited to participate as a pioneer Fellow of the Brown University, International Advanced Research Institute (BIARI), Providence, Rhode Island, USA. His recognition extends to his home country, with the Delta State University (DELSU) Senate awarding him the Most Hardworking HOD in 2017. His fight against examination malpractice was commended by the DELSU Senate and the State Government in 2005, further highlighting his unwavering commitment to academic integrity.

Professor Ufuophu-Biri has visited and presented papers in over 30 different countries. He has been a visiting lecturer and external examiner at several tertiary institutions within and outside Nigeria. Professor Ufuophu-Biri is a Master of Ceremony par excellence, hosting over 150 ceremonies within and outside Nigeria. His talent extends beyond hosting, as he is also a skilled comedian, short movie producer, and rapper. His influence in the entertainment industry is evident in the many famous comedians and actors/actresses he has mentored.