Novena University Confers Honorary Doctorate on Oborevwori

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has received an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in Public Policy and Strategy from Novena University, Ogume, in recognition of his impactful contributions to governance and development within the state.

The conferment was part of the university’s 5th combined convocation ceremony, which took place on Saturday at the Amai campus in the Ukwuani Local Government Area, covering academic sessions from 2018/2019 to 2023/2024.

In his acceptance speech, Governor Oborevwori expressed his appreciation to the university for the esteemed recognition, noting that it serves as both encouragement and motivation to advance 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.”

The governor outlined his administration’s accomplishments, including enhancing urban-rural integration through extensive road projects and providing micro-credits as well as capacity-building programs to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

He shared that over two hundred thousand individuals have benefited from grants and other business support initiatives aimed at cushioning 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.

The governor commended the Pro-Chancellor of Novena University, Chuks Ochonogor, for his visionary leadership and dedication to delivering quality education. He remarked, “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 encouraged the university’s faculty and staff to take pride in their commitment to education and urged graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their time at Novena. “Today, you graduate equipped with essential knowledge and the tools necessary for analytical thinking and self-awareness,” he stated.

He advised the graduates to embrace change, acknowledging that while transitions can be challenging, they also present opportunities for growth. “Embrace change; use it as motivation to explore uncharted territories in your personal and professional lives,” he encouraged.

HRM King Alfred Diete-Spiff, the Chancellor of Novena University, described the institution as a testament to perseverance and diligence, commending the Pro-Chancellor for his positive influence on both the community and the nation.

He urged leaders across Nigeria to embody vision, sincerity, and integrity in their efforts to advance the country.

Chuks Ochonogor, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, described the event as a celebration of twenty years of meaningful service, emphasizing the university’s role in boosting the local economy through employment opportunities and creating avenues for self-employed individuals, contractors, traders, and landlords.

He highlighted that since its inception in the 2005/2006 academic session with three colleges, the university has grown to encompass seven colleges, including Colleges of Medicine and Law.

In his address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Godwin Nduka reaffirmed Novena University’s position as the first private higher education institution in Delta State.

He also noted the milestone of having the first Deltan serve as Vice-Chancellor since the university’s founding two decades ago.

The Vice-Chancellor praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his leadership in ensuring the prompt payment of salaries—including the new minimum wage—and for improving security and public infrastructure to support various groups in need.

Among the graduates at the convocation was State Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, who was awarded a Master of Science Degree in Accounting.