Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has linked his return to office after the six-month state of emergency to what he described as the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu, while reaffirming his commitment to maintaining funding for the Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt.
Fubara stated this during the institution’s 37th and 38th combined convocation on Saturday, where he reiterated his administration’s continued investment in strengthening the state’s education sector.
Reflecting on the concerns raised by the university management, he said several of the issues would not have arisen had democracy not been briefly disrupted in the state.
“As you said, a report was given to us. But you all know what happened in the life of our administration. It is only by the special grace of God, the special favor of Mr. President, that we are still here as those who preside over the affairs of Rivers State,” he said.
The governor assured those present that his administration had fully resumed its functions and would address the complaints presented during the ceremony.
It outlined priorities including closing infrastructure gaps, improving safety and improving staff and student well-being.
He also revealed that satellite campuses outside Port Harcourt facing operational difficulties would receive accelerated attention in 2026.
“We will continue to meet our financial obligations to the university, ensuring better infrastructure, as well as the safety and well-being of staff and students. Education remains the most vital investment for national development,” Fubara said.
The governor lauded the steady growth of RSU and highlighted its role in advancing quality education, intellectual development and leadership training in line with state and national development goals.
He urged the institution to increase its focus on research and innovation to address socio-economic challenges in Rivers State and Nigeria.
He congratulated the 13,242 graduates of the combined call between first degrees, diplomas and certificates, and thanked parents, guardians, the Governing Council and staff for their support.
Fubara encouraged the graduates to pursue emerging opportunities with integrity, creativity and perseverance.
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“As you move into the future, let integrity, hard work and honesty guide you. Appreciate the sacrifices made for your education and live a life of purpose, kindness and compassion,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, expressed his delight at presiding over his first convocation since his appointment on March 6, 2025 and highlighted the achievements under his leadership, including accommodation for 40,000 students and full accreditation for all programmes.
Of the 13,242 graduating students, 10,648 received first-class degrees, 2,594 obtained postgraduate degrees, 157 graduated with first-class honours, 2,587 obtained upper second-class degrees, while 6,275 obtained lower second-class degrees.
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