Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has described education as the most crucial investment for a nation’s economic success.
This was as Governor Fubara has expressed joy that the Rivers State University (RSU) is fulfilling its goal of providing world class education and nurturing leaders to advance society.
The governor made the assertion Saturday, at the combined 37th and 38th Convocation of the University where he also pledged to prioritise funding to improve the learning environment.
Fubara noted that the University was founded to provide world class education, encourage critical thinking, and nurture leaders who will contribute to the growth of the communities, state, and nation.
“I am pleased to see these fundamental dreams realised
as 13,242 students from all parts of Nigeria receive graduate and postgraduate degrees, certificates, and diplomas.
“Indeed, we are proud of the remarkable growth of this university and its outstanding contributions to developing manpower in our state and the country”, he said.
The governor charged management of the institution to prioritise research and innovation as they navigate the path to the top, encouraging them to offer practical solutions to the developmental challenges that the society faces, including the creation of suitable local technologies to enhance human security, economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
The Rivers governor further pledged that his administration will endeavour to fulfil its obligations in funding the university, including providing sufficient infrastructure and supporting the security and well-being of staff and students
He emphasised: “Education is the most crucial investment for a nation’s economic success. Therefore, we cannot, as a responsible government, afford to deprive our youths of the most essential tool they need to improve their lives.
The governor also acknowledged the problems confronting the university, both at the main campus and other locations. He noted that tackling the challenges within the State’s educational system requires more than occasional interventions.
“Our commitment, therefore, is to go beyond limited measures and pursue lasting, transformative reforms to bolster the educational system and achieve the intended outcomes”, Fubara stated.
The governor told the graduands, that the ceremony marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives, as it brings new experiences, challenges, and choices on their journey through life
He charged them to always let hard work, integrity, and honesty guide them throughout their journey and be job creators as that will help in reducing insecurity and unemployment in the country.
Fubara urged them to tap into the opportunities across various sectors of the economy of the State, where they can either find jobs or start their own business as young entrepreneurs.
In his remarks, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi applauded Governor Fubara for appointing him on March 6, 2025, as the Vice-Chancellor of the institution after a rigorous exercise.
Prof Zeb-Obipi enumerated some achievements of his administration since March 7, 2025 to include providing hostel accommodation for 40,000 students and obtaining full National University Commission and professional accreditations for the various programmes of the University.
According to him, “We are graduating a total of 13,242 students at this convocation ceremony, 10,648 of them for first degrees 2,594 for postgraduate diplomas and degrees. 157.of them obtained First Class; 2,587, Second Class (Upper Division); and 6,275, Second Class (Lower Division).”
Blessing Ibunge
Follow us on:
