DELSU: Ex-Students Of Biochemistry Department Honour VC With Award Of Excellence

By Joy Enamuotor

In a heartwarming reunion marked by nostalgia and recognition, alumni from the first and second sets of the Department of Biochemistry at the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, paid a courtesy visit to the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samuel Asagba, to felicitate with him on his appointment and present an award of excellence to their former lecturer.

The delegation, comprising 23 ex-students of the said department, included members of the pioneer (1997) and second (1998) graduating classes, as well as representatives from other sets.

The group, now made up of accomplished professionals—including Professors, Doctors, Heads of Departments, Lecturers, and other leaders in their fields—were once students of Professor Asagba during his time as a lecturer in the department.

A highlight of the visit was the traditional presentation of kolanuts and drinks by Dr. Ejovi Osioma, who led the gesture in accordance with cultural customs.

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In response, Professor Asagba warmly accepted the kolanuts and offered heartfelt prayers for everyone in attendance, expressing gratitude and invoking blessings on all.

Describing the visit as both emotional and symbolic, the alumni expressed pride in seeing one of their mentors rise to the pinnacle of academic leadership at the university.

Also, an award presented to the don recognised Professor Asagba’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and leadership.

Speaking during the presentation, a representative of the group said: “We are here not just to celebrate your elevation to the office of Vice-Chancellor but to honour the impact you had on us as students. You inspired us to aim higher, and today, many of us are professors, doctors, bishops and leaders in our respective fields.”

In his response, the visibly moved Professor Asagba, thanked his former students for their visit and the kind gesture.

He recalled his time as a young lecturer in the department and expressed joy at seeing how far his former students had come.

“It is humbling and fulfilling to see that the seeds we planted decades ago have grown into mighty trees. Your success is our pride,” he said.

The event also featured moments of reflection, shared memories, and a reaffirmation of commitment to support the university’s continued growth and developments.

The delegation that made the courtesy visit included Dr. Ejayeta Jeroh, FCIHRM, Ch. HRC, Mr. Alex Bazunu, Mr. Akpevwe Denedo, Prof. Azubuike Ebokaiwe, Dr. Mrs. Edith Okoro, Prof. Israel O. Okoro, Dr. Ejovi Osioma, Mrs. Gloria Oghenegare Enaughe, Comr. Ikolo Omo-Ohwo, Apostle Dennis Akpobire, Dr. Dennis Oriero and Mrs. Herrietta Onyesom.

Others are Mr. Orogun Udhedhe John, Mr. Ezekiel Atakwo, Dr. Sylvester Odiase, Mr. Anthony Orhu, Dr. Theresa Ezedom, Dr. Lisa Ekakite, Dr. Ejiro Awhin, Dr. Uche Dennis-Eboh, Dr. Clement Ororo, Dr. Othuke Odeghe and Dr. Joel Okpoghonor