Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in Public Policy and Strategy by Novena University in Ogume, in recognition of his significant contributions to the governance and development of the state.
The award ceremony took place on Saturday during the university’s 5th combined convocation ceremony, which encompassed the academic sessions from 2018/2019 to 2023/2024, held at the Amai campus in the Ukwuani Local Government Area.
During his acceptance speech, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the university for this prestigious recognition, emphasizing that it serves as both an encouragement and a challenge to further his vision of advancing Delta State through his M.O.R.E Agenda.
He stated, “Our administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda outlines key priorities aimed at achieving sustainable social and economic development. We plan to realize this through infrastructure development, comprehensive youth training, empowerment programs, and creating a conducive environment for local and foreign investments.”
Governor Oborevwori highlighted the administration’s achievements in enhancing urban-rural integration through extensive road construction, as well as providing micro-credits and capacity-building support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He noted that over two hundred thousand individuals have benefited from grants and business support initiatives designed to help mitigate the effects of current economic challenges.
“I’m immensely grateful that our modest achievements have been recognized by Novena University. Moving forward, we aim to build on our successes and ensure the sustainability of our projects and policies,” he added.
He praised the Pro-Chancellor of the university, Chuks Ochonogor, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering quality education. “As the first private university in Delta State, Novena University has not only met expectations but has also grown significantly in terms of enrollment, academic programs, infrastructure improvements, and overall learning experience.”
He continued, “I commend you for your courage and determination in choosing to invest in the education of our youth instead of opting for quicker returns through commercial ventures. Your contributions will be remembered favorably by future generations.”
Governor Oborevwori urged the university’s faculty and staff to take pride in their dedication to education and encouraged graduates to apply the knowledge and skills they gained at Novena. “Today, you graduate equipped with essential knowledge and the tools necessary for analytical thinking and self-awareness,” he remarked.
He encouraged the graduates to prepare themselves for change, acknowledging that while transitions can be daunting, they also present opportunities for new beginnings. “Embrace change; use it as motivation to explore uncharted territories in your personal and professional lives,” he advised.
The Chancellor of the University, HRM King Alfred Diete-Spiff, emphasized that Novena University represents a significant lesson in diligence for Nigeria and commended the Pro-Chancellor for his positive impact on the community and the nation.
He urged leaders across Nigeria to cultivate vision, sincerity, and integrity in their efforts to improve the country.
Chuks Ochonogor, the Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, described the ceremony as a celebration of twenty years of meaningful service to the people, highlighting the university’s role in stimulating the local economy by generating employment and facilitating lucrative ventures for the self-employed, contractors, traders, and landlords.
He noted that since beginning its academic journey in the 2005/2006 session with three colleges, the university has expanded to include seven colleges, now featuring Colleges of Medicine and Law.
In his welcoming address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Godwin Nduka reiterated Novena University’s status as the first private institution of higher learning in Delta State.
He also acknowledged the milestone of having the first Deltan serve as Vice-Chancellor since the university’s establishment two decades ago.
The Vice-Chancellor commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his leadership in ensuring the timely payment of salaries—including the new minimum wage—improving security, and enhancing public infrastructure to support diverse groups in need.
Among the graduates at the ceremony was State Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, who received a Master of Science Degree in Accounting.
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