Pre-Convocation Service: I’ll Build On Legacies Of Past DELSU VCs With Integrity, Excellence –Prof. Asagba

By Daniel Dafe

Vice-Chancellor, Delta State University, DELSU, Abraka, Professor Samuel Asagba, has said that past Vice Chancellors through their wisdom, vision and sacrifices laid a firm foundation upon which they will continue to build on.

He said this on Sunday during a Pre-Convocation Service at Our Saviour’s Chapel, Abraka, to kickstart activities for the 17th Convocation of the institution, just as he declared that he will build on the legacies of past VCs with integrity, excellence.

Delivering his goodwill message, he added that the foundational leadership of Late Prof. F.M.A Ukoli “birthed the academic spirit of DELSU.”

He continued: “To Professor Eric Arubayi whose legacies live on in our infrastructure, our policies and our progress- we express deep appreciation.

“We also recognize the significant stride made by Professor Victor Peretomode and Professor Andy Egwunyenga as their leaderships brought remarkable academic and institutional advancements.”

Explaining the importance of a Pre-Convocation Service, he said: “It is only fitting that we commence the week of academic festivity in the presence of the Almighty, acknowledging His unceasing grace and favor upon the great institution.”

According to him, convocation is a culmination of years of effort of sleepless nights of research and innovation, of guidance and mentorship.

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Adding: “It is a moment that not only honours our graduands, but also celebrates the collective labor of our university family and students, our staff, our leaders, our community and the divine hand that has made all things possible.”

While congratulating graduating students, he noted that their diligence and resilience have brought them to this defining moment.

In his charge to students, he said: “As you step into the world beyond these walls, carry with you the values of discipline, integrity and excellence that DELSU has instilled in you. Be proud of this institution and let your light so shine.”

Speaking further, he appreciated clerics of the different denominations in DELSU campuses and those that visit from time to time for their inputs, describing them as “a quiet but powerful force” behind the peace, discipline and moral compass of the tertiary institution.

Furthermore, he thanked the academic and non-academic staff for their loyalty and hardwork.

Meanwhile, he prayed, saying: “As we officially begin the 2025 Convocation Week, I pray for peace, safety, and success in every event and gathering.”

Earlier, the Presiding Chaplain/Local Pastor, Venerable Nelson Emebeyo, read from Psalms 123:1-5, assuring the VC and his entourage that this year’s event will be a huge success.

Asagba was accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. (Mrs) Rose Okoh; Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Hilary Owamah; Provost of Oleh Campus of DELSU, Prof Elo Ibagere, the University Registrar, Mrs Rufina Ufiofio; the University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs) Josephine Onohwakpor; the incoming Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Edmund Atakpor and Provost of College of Health Sciences, Professor Emmanuel Odokuma;

Also in attendance were Prof. & Prof. (Mrs.) Eric Arubayi.