18th Convocation: DELSU Unveils Major Reforms, New Academic Programmes, ₦4.2Bn Hostel Project, Solar Power Plan

By Akpobomeh Oghenerukevwe

The management of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, has highlighted major achievements in academic development, digital reforms, infrastructure expansion, and student welfare as part of activities marking its 18th Convocation Ceremony, while also addressing concerns raised by stakeholders on governance and institutional challenges.

Speaking on Tuesday during a press conference held ahead of the convocation, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ogheneovo Asagba, said the university remains committed to strengthening its reputation as Nigeria’s leading state university through innovation, transparency, and sustained development.

Prof. Asagba disclosed that the university would honour distinguished personalities, including the Obi of Umukwata and Grace Aghoghovia, in recognition of their contributions to society. He also announced that Prof. Igbigbi would be conferred with the title of Emeritus Professor for his outstanding academic achievements.

Reaffirming DELSU’s academic standing, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the institution is currently ranked as the 12th best university in Nigeria and remains the number one state university in the country, describing it as a reflection of the university’s steady rise in academic excellence.

He highlighted several ICT-driven reforms introduced by his administration, including improved result processing systems, a unified admissions and medical screening portal, enhanced online payment platforms, and the deployment of over 1,000 computers across campuses.

According to him, these digital improvements have significantly boosted efficiency, reduced delays in academic processes, and strengthened service delivery across the institution.

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Prof. Asagba further revealed that DELSU is set to expand academically with plans to introduce new programmes in Environmental Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, Public Health, and Computing, pending accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

On infrastructure, he said ongoing projects include the renovation of lecture halls, furniture upgrades, and expansion of academic facilities. He added that the Faculty of Agriculture complex is nearing completion at the fourth-floor level, while a dedicated distance learning facility is under construction.

He also disclosed that a fibre optic internet project is underway to improve research and connectivity, while administrative reforms have led to the expansion of registry units from 17 to 27 and the creation of a third Deputy Vice-Chancellor position for Research and Innovation.

Student-focused initiatives, according to the Vice-Chancellor, include the introduction of SERVICOM and whistleblowing channels to improve service delivery, the award of entrepreneurial certificates alongside academic qualifications, and an increase in the work-study allowance from ₦30,000 to ₦50,000.

He added that the Students’ Union Government has been provided with a vehicle to support its operations, while tuition fees have remained unchanged despite rising operational costs.

Responding to allegations of violations of employment procedures and the subsequent probe by the Delta State House of Assembly, Prof. Asagba clarified that the university management had made formal presentations as required and is currently awaiting official feedback.

On concerns regarding maintenance culture, he explained that successive administrations have addressed infrastructural gaps based on prevailing priorities at the time, stressing that his administration’s focus reflects urgent needs identified upon assumption of office and was not intended as criticism of past leadership.

Addressing concerns over the establishment of new universities within Delta State, the Vice-Chancellor dismissed fears of competition, insisting that DELSU continues to maintain its premier status as reflected in its consistently high admission applications.

He argued that with the growing population of Delta State and Nigeria at large, more universities are needed, suggesting that at least two institutions in each senatorial district—Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South—would improve access to quality education.

He commended former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his educational vision and praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for sustaining the state’s commitment to educational development.

On malpractice and extortion, Prof. Asagba maintained a firm stance, stressing that no report of misconduct would be ignored. He revealed that complaints received through the university’s whistleblowing channels have led to disciplinary actions against erring staff members.

He added that monitoring mechanisms and internal checks remain in place to deter misconduct, warning that offenders would face strict sanctions.

Addressing student welfare, the Vice-Chancellor announced that the Central Bank of Nigeria has approved the construction of a 1,000-capacity hostel valued at ₦4.2 billion.

He also said efforts are ongoing to secure the completion of previously initiated hostel projects through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), while the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) is expected to provide an additional 1,000-capacity hostel facility.

On power supply challenges, he disclosed that the university is exploring alternative energy solutions, including a proposed solar power arrangement with a private firm, which is expected to significantly reduce the institution’s current electricity expenditure estimated at over ₦100 million.

While acknowledging persistent challenges such as security concerns, high energy costs, and the absence of a modern sports complex, Prof. Asagba reaffirmed DELSU’s resilience, citing the university’s fourth-place finish at the Nigerian University Games as evidence of its progress.

He concluded by emphasizing plans to mobilize support from alumni both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, as well as well-meaning Nigerians, through a fundraising initiative aimed at sustaining DELSU’s growth and long-term development trajectory.