The Rivers State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of education, pledging to strengthen investments that will make state-owned institutions globally competitive.
The State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, gave this assurance on Saturday during the 35th Convocation Ceremony and 50th Anniversary Celebration of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), held at the Chief Nyesom Wike Convocation Arena in Choba, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
As part of the ceremony, Ibas commissioned the Convocation Arena—an iconic structure completed under the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at the event, Ibas outlined the state government’s education strategy focused on sustained infrastructural investment, improved funding for tertiary institutions, and policies that guarantee inclusive access to education at all levels.
“As Administrator of Rivers State, I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to education as the foundation of sustainable development. We will continue to support learning institutions from foundational to tertiary levels, ensuring that no child is left behind and that our universities remain globally competitive,” he said.
Ibas also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for projects such as the Convocation Arena to flourish.
Describing UNIPORT’s golden jubilee as a historic milestone, Ibas commended the university for its role in promoting academic excellence, research innovation, and national development since its establishment in 1975.
“From modest beginnings, UNIPORT has grown into one of Nigeria’s most respected institutions, producing leaders, scientists, professionals, and patriots who continue to shape our nation,” he noted.
The Administrator also congratulated prominent Nigerians who received honorary doctorates at the event, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, and TETFund Board Chairman Aminu Masari, for their contributions to education and national service.
The Vice Chancellor of UNIPORT, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, disclosed that the university conferred 13,861 degrees, including 9,788 Bachelor’s, 2,131 Master’s, 208 Postgraduate Diplomas, and 934 PhDs, during the combined convocation.
Addressing the graduates, Ibas urged them to channel their knowledge into solving real-life challenges.
“You are the change-makers of tomorrow. Let your education drive impactful solutions for the growth of our nation,” he advised
