Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara says he remained in office after the six-month emergency rule period because of what he described as President Bola Tinubu’s special favour.
Fubara made the comment on Saturday during the combined 37th and 38th convocation of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt. He used the event to assure the university community that his administration would continue to fund the institution and address issues raised by its management.
Speaking on challenges faced by the school, the governor said many of the problems were linked to the political crisis that disrupted governance earlier in the year.
He 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 favour from Mr President, that we are standing here still as the ones presiding over the affairs of Rivers State.”
Fubara promised that the state government would take full responsibility for the concerns presented by the university. He outlined plans to improve infrastructure, strengthen security, and enhance the welfare of staff and students. He also said satellite campuses outside Port Harcourt that have been struggling would receive more attention starting 2026.
“We will continue to fulfil our financial obligations to the university, ensuring improved infrastructure as well as the security and welfare of staff and students. Education remains the most vital investment for national development,” he said.
The governor praised the progress recorded by RSU and urged its leadership to push research and innovation that could help solve social and economic challenges in the state.
He congratulated the 13,242 graduating students and encouraged them to make good use of new opportunities. “As you step into the future, let integrity, hard work, and honesty guide you. Cherish the sacrifices made for your education and live a life of purpose, kindness, and compassion,” he said.
RSU Vice-Chancellor Prof Isaac Zeb-Obipi said he was pleased to oversee his first convocation since his appointment on March 6, 2025. He highlighted achievements, including accommodation for 40,000 students and full accreditation for all programmes.
Of the 13,242 graduates, 10,648 received first degrees, while 2,594 finished postgraduate studies. A total of 157 students earned First Class honours, 2,587 received Second Class Upper degrees, and 6,275 earned Second Class Lower degrees.
Chancellor HRH Dr Sidi Mohammad commended Fubara for making RSU one of the best-funded public universities in the country. He encouraged Nigerian universities to embrace new technologies, including artificial intelligence.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Hon Okey Wali, SAN, praised the governor’s strong support and unveiled a five-year Strategic Development Plan for 2026 to 2030 aimed at improving RSU’s local and global standing.
