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Attempted Murder: Oghenesivbe Commends Kokori Youth, Women Over Peaceful Protest Against Herdsmen Attacks

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Hill Nigeria
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….Assures Gov. Oborevwori is addressing security breaches; donates ₦100,000 for victim’s medical care

Justice of the Peace (JP) and Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., has commended the youth and women of Kokori Inland in Ethiope East Local Government Area for their peaceful demonstration following the attempted murder of a farmer, Chief Dafe French Efeurhobo, allegedly attacked by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

In a statement issued on Friday and made available to journalists, Dr. Oghenesivbe described the attack as “gruesome and regrettable” and announced a personal donation of ₦100,000 to assist with the medical treatment of the victim, a 40-year-old farmer who is currently receiving critical care at an undisclosed hospital, calling on financially endowed individuals to donate generously towards the medical treatment.

He praised the restraint and maturity displayed by the Kokori youth and women during their peaceful protest to the local government council and police authorities, noting that their actions reflected a commitment to law and order despite provocation.

Dr. Oghenesivbe urged residents of Kokori community in Agbon Kingdom to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the Delta State Government and Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, are fully aware of the incident and are working behind the scenes to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted.

He further called on the Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Council, Chief Augustine Ogedegbe, JP, to urgently convene a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at developing result-oriented strategies to strengthen internal security and flush out criminal elements from the community.

The Bureau Director-General emphasized the need for a community-based and intelligence-driven approach to security, advocating a review of existing strategies and the adoption of coded, multi-faceted intelligence-gathering methods to prevent future breaches. He stressed that such measures would promote peaceful coexistence and good neighbourliness between indigenous and non-indigenous residents.

Warning against continued attacks on law-abiding citizens, Dr. Oghenesivbe noted that persistent insecurity could provoke self-help with dire consequences. He therefore appealed to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, and heads of other security agencies to intensify surveillance and intelligence operations in Kokori community and across the state.

“The attempted murder of a law-abiding farmer in Kokori community, as widely reported by the media, is highly regrettable,” he said.

“I commend the gallant youth of the community for embarking on a peaceful demonstration to register their displeasure with the council chairman and police authorities.

“I urge the council chairman, Chief Augustine Ogedegbe, JP, to summon an emergency stakeholders’ meeting to work out practical and effective strategies to rid Kokori and other communities in Ethiope East of criminal elements.

“I also call on the youth to remain calm but resolute in their pursuit of justice and improved security in the community,” Oghenesivbe added.

Ned Nwoko Commiserates With Nwaoboshi’s  Family On Demise Of  Renowned  Politician 

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Hill Nigeria
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 Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly has expressed  condolences to the family of the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi on the demise of the prominent Politician.

  In a condolence  message issued at Abuja, Senator Nwoko  said the late Nwaoboshi would  be remembered for  his notable contributions to the political development of Delta state and Anioma land, dating back to  the 1990s.

He described the late  Nwaoboshi who was Delta North Senator  from 2015 to 2023 as a  long-standing political figure, consummate party administrator and dedicated  community leader”

 “It is with profound sense of loss and grief that I received the sad news of the passing of Senator  Peter Nwaoboshi.

“He no doubt contributed immensely to the social and  political evolution of Delta state, Delta North as well as the Nation ,having held key positions as party Chairman, Civil Commissioner and Senator among other  offices.

“On behalf of myself, family and political associates, I extend my deep  commiseration to the  family on this difficult moment of the loss of their patriarch.

“May the Almighty grant the entire family and indeed the people of Oshimili, Anioma and Delta state at large the fortitude to bear the  irreparable loss”Nwoko stated.

Oborevwori Mourns Senator Peter Nwaoboshi

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, describing his death as a great loss to Delta State, the Anioma nation and Nigeria at large.

Governor Oborevwori in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said Senator Nwaoboshi was a proud son of Delta State and a courageous defender of the Anioma cause whose contributions to nation-building would remain indelible.

The Governor recalled the late senator’s impactful service at the National Assembly, where he chaired the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, noting that his voice and advocacy for the development of the Niger Delta and Delta State stood him out as a committed and passionate leader.

He said Senator Nwaoboshi’s political journey and rise to prominence were anchored on a rich political pedigree, selfless service and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy, which also saw him serve meritoriously as a two-time Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

According to the governor, the late lawmaker devoted his life to the service of his people, the party and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty and dedication to public service.

Governor Oborevwori, said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the passing of my dear friend, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Anioma nation, members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress and all those whose lives he touched.

“I pray that Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss”.

Tinubu’s Budget Re-Enactment Pushes Funding Framework for State Police, Security Reforms

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Hill Nigeria
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has transmitted fresh Appropriation (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bills for the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years to the National Assembly, with a renewed focus on strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, including laying a firmer fiscal foundation for the proposed creation of state police.

The President’s request was conveyed in a letter dated December 18, 2025, and read in plenary by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Tinubu explained that the new submission supersedes the earlier budget transmission of December 16, 2025, and is aimed at ensuring the full release of the targeted 30 per cent capital allocation to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), a critical requirement for security and governance reforms.

According to the President, the repeal and re-enactment of the 2024 and 2025 Appropriation Acts would allow for revised expenditure frameworks that reflect current fiscal realities, implementation capacity and the administration’s reform priorities, particularly in internal security management.

Under the revised proposals, the 2024 budget would increase from N35.06 trillion to N43.56 trillion, comprising N1.74 trillion for statutory transfers, N8.27 trillion for debt service, N11.27 trillion for recurrent (non-debt) expenditure, and N22.28 trillion for capital expenditure and development fund contributions. A significant portion of the capital allocation, the President noted, is designed to support critical national infrastructure and security-related investments required to operationalise reforms such as state policing.

Similarly, the 2025 budget, earlier approved at N54.99 trillion, would be repealed and re-enacted at N48.32 trillion. The revised 2025 proposal includes N3.65 trillion for statutory transfers, N14.32 trillion for debt service, N13.59 trillion for recurrent (non-debt) expenditure, and N16.71 trillion for capital expenditure and development fund contributions, covering implementation up to March 31, 2026.

President Tinubu stressed that extending the 2025 budget implementation timeline to March 31, 2026, is crucial to achieving the full release and utilisation of the revised 30 per cent capital implementation target across all MDAs. He said this would provide the financial flexibility needed to support emerging national priorities, including decentralised policing and enhanced security coordination between federal and sub-national governments.

The President explained that the adjustments also cater for items not previously recognised and align spending plans with realistic revenue expectations, while maintaining transparency and credibility in budget performance. He added that the move forms part of broader fiscal reforms aimed at eliminating overlaps arising from multiple concurrently running budgets, a situation that has often constrained effective funding of security initiatives.

Tinubu further noted that the proposed Bills would reinforce fiscal discipline by ensuring that appropriated funds are released and applied strictly for approved purposes. Provisions in the Bills include restricting virements without prior approval of the National Assembly, setting clear conditions for corrigenda, mandating separate recording of excess revenues, and limiting their expenditure to legislative authorisation—measures he said are essential for accountability as the country considers state police structures.

The Bills also mandate strict due-process compliance and periodic reporting on fund releases, agency revenues and external assistance, steps the President described as necessary to guarantee prudent public financial management and constitutional oversight, especially in security-related spending.

The House of Representatives is expected to deliberate on the Bills in the coming days, as part of efforts to reposition the national budget framework to support improved capital project delivery, sustainable economic management, and the successful take-off of reforms such as the creation of state police to address Nigeria’s security challenges more effectively.

Delta EXCO Approves N42bn for Projects

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved projects worth over N42 billion for road infrastructure, erosion and flood control, and the expansion of electricity supply across the state.

Briefing journalists at the end of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the approvals were in line with the administration’s resolve to accelerate development and improve the quality of life of Deltans.

Aniagwu, who was flanked by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Projects and Policies, Olisa Ifeajika and the Executive Assistant on New Media, Mr. Felix Ofou, explained that the approvals covered critical road infrastructure, erosion control measures and the extension of energy supply, particularly in the Udu area, to boost industrial and domestic power needs.

According to him, EXCO approved major works on the Old Lagos–Asaba Road, including the reconstruction of Phase Two covering the Obior to Ubulu-Uku axis in Aniocha North and Aniocha South Local Government Areas, as well as the Ute-Ogbeje to Ebuenor and Ani-Nwachokor routes in Ika North East.

He disclosed that some of the projects had their costs reviewed upward due to changes in market prices and earlier delays caused by weather and funding challenges.

“The Council also approved the upward review of the Ute-Ogbeje to Otolokpo road, and approved the construction of the Etua-Etiti and Etua-Oliogo internal roads in Ndokwa West, to enable contractors mobilise fully and complete the projects,” Aniagwu said.

He added that the construction of erosion control measures around the Asaba International Airport was approved to protect the surrounding infrastructure from flooding, while flood control works would also be extended along Dennis Osadebay Way from the traffic light to Abraka Road, an area badly affected by erosion and floodwaters.

Other approvals, he said, included the completion of internal roads in Otorho-Abraka in Ethiope East Local Government Area, the construction of Imohwe Street in Ughelli.

On energy, Aniagwu disclosed that EXCO approved the replacement of a broken-down 15MVA power transformer and the installation of new 300KVA transformers, alongside the rehabilitation of substations and ancillary equipment, to improve electricity supply in Udu and adjoining communities.

“These interventions are deliberate efforts by the Oborevwori administration to boost energy supply, support economic activities and improve living conditions in our communities,” he said.

The commissioner also informed journalists that the governor had signed the N1.7 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, noting that over 70 per cent of the budget was dedicated to capital expenditure, with strong emphasis on infrastructure development.

He assured that despite the approaching election season, the administration would continue to “double down on development,” stressing that all due procurement processes would be followed before the award and execution of projects.

Aniagwu expressed confidence that the approved projects would significantly advance Delta State’s developmental trajectory, adding that the government remained appreciative of the support it had received from residents and stakeholders across the state.

Delta Govt Assures Workers Of Safety 

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Hill Nigeria
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…As NLC Stages Peaceful Nationwide Protest Against Insecurity

The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, declaring that security remains the very essence of governance.

The assurance was given on Wednesday at Government House, Asaba, by the Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, while addressing members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) who staged a peaceful protest as part of the nationwide demonstration against insecurity in Nigeria.

Receiving the protesters on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Erijo acknowledged their concerns, stressing that “the primary essence of government is the security and welfare of its citizens,” adding that no government would be indifferent to the safety of its populace.

While noting that Delta State remains relatively peaceful, he described the protest as a solidarity action reflecting the broader national security challenges.

The Chief of Staff also pointed out that the Federal Government is aware of the gravity of the situation, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited some of the security challenges currently confronting the country.

“We equally recognize the efforts being made by the Federal Government to confront and address the ugly and disturbing security situations being experienced in some parts of the country,” he said.

Erijo conveyed the message of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the workers, emphasizing that the enhancement of peace and security is one of the cardinal pillars of the present administration’s MORE Agenda.

According to him, “without peace and security, it would be impossible to effectively deliver the dividends of democracy,” and assured the protesters that their message had been clearly received and would be transmitted to the appropriate authorities, including the President.

Commending the NLC for its peaceful conduct, Erijo said the state government appreciated the maturity displayed by the workers, assuring them that “necessary actions will continue to be taken to further strengthen security across the nation.”

Earlier, the Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Delta State Council, Comrade Acrobat Enekhawore, had painted a grim picture of how insecurity has disrupted daily life and shattered public confidence across the country.

The protest, which formed part of a nationwide action by the NLC, ended with a call for decisive collaboration between the state and federal governments to restore security, safeguard children’s education, protect workplaces and homes, and secure the future of the nation.

Delta NIPR, St. Philip’s Anglican Church to Host 2025 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

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Hill Nigeria
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As Christians around the world embrace the joyous spirit of Christmas in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Asaba, in collaboration with the Delta State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), has concluded plans to host the 2025 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.

The sacred festival, scheduled for Sunday, December 21, will take place at the Church Auditorium, Anglican Girls Grammar School (AGGS), Asaba, Delta State, beginning from 7am.

The event offers worshippers a profound opportunity to reaffirm the primacy of God in their daily lives through uplifting Christmas carols and scriptural readings that inspire reflection, gratitude, and renewed spiritual strength amid global and personal challenges.

In a statement issued by the Delta NIPR Public Relations Officer, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., it was announced that the State Chairman of NIPR, Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, FNIPR, will lead members of the Institute to the annual festival.

Dr. Oghenesivbe assured that this year’s celebration promises to be a glorious expression of praise, thoughtfully designed to rekindle the spirit of love, unity, and righteousness among public relations practitioners, professionals across various sectors, and the wider community.

He described Christmas as a season of love and peace, a time when barriers give way to brotherhood, friendships are strengthened, love is freely shared, and hearts are lifted beyond human understanding.

According to him, it is also a season marked by deep gratitude and heartfelt expressions of thanksgiving, adding that members of the Institute, invited guests, and special guests have been encouraged to dress in Christmas colours; white with a touch of red or red with a touch of white.

“Delta NIPR is pleased to announce the 2025 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols in collaboration with St. Philip’s Anglican Church, AGGS Asaba.

 “Members and invited guests are expected to be seated on or before 6:45 am., as the programme will commence promptly at 7:00 a.m,” Oghenesivbe said.

Oghenesivbe Commends Speaker Guwor, Assembly Members For Passing N1.7 Trillion Delta 2026 Appropriation Bill

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Hill Nigeria
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The Director General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has commended the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, and assembly members for the timely passage of the N1.7 trillion 2026 appropriation bill into law.

Oghenesivbe in a statement on Tuesday, said the State 8th Assembly led by Speaker Guwor, has been very proactive, focused, and had sustained synergy with the executive arm to ensure that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda continues to upscale meaningful development across the three senatorial districts

The Bureau Chief emphasized the need for the three arms of government namely; the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary, to continue to work together to deliver democracy benefits to the people, noting that the robust relationship between the executive and the legislature has strategically placed Delta in an advantageous position, delivering quality dividends of democracy across the 25 local government areas in the state.

Oghenesivbe assured that Governor Oborevwori will continue to grow the state economy, expand road infrastructure development, start the state electricity project, improve healthcare services, upscale standards in the education sector, fund social welfare programmes and assist small and medium scale businesses.

He thanked the House Appropriation Committee Chairman, Hon Mrs Marilyn Okowa, and other committee members for their work on the bill, noting that the 8th Assembly has shown that separation of powers means coordinated teamwork, not confrontation.

“The Delta State 8th Assembly under the leadership of Speaker Guwor, has been proactive, resilient and focused, collaborating with the executive arm to ensure that governor Sheriff Oborevwori delivers on his electioneering campaign promises.

“It’s crystal clear that separation of power is not about unnecessary confrontations. It connotes a well coordinated synergy between the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary arms of government to ensure good governance in all ramifications.

“In Delta State, we are lucky to have selfless and patriotic lawmakers, a hallowed chamber that is devoid of unnecessary confrontations, yet Independent and proactive in the exercise of oversight functions.

“The passing of the 2026 Delta State Appropriation Bill into law within a reasonable time frame attests to the selfless service of Mr Speaker and his colleagues who strongly believe in the MORE Agenda, and aligned with the governor’s socioeconomic blueprint.

“Mr Speaker and his colleagues deserve the support and commendation of all well meaning Deltans for their resilience and inestimable contributions to the development of our dear state,” Oghenesivbe said.

Delta Police Record Major Crime-Fighting Gains, Recover 144 Firearms, Arrest 627 Suspects

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Police Command has recorded significant operational successes in its fight against crime, arresting 627 suspects and recovering 144 firearms between January 2025 and date.

Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, disclosed this on Monday in Asaba during a press briefing where he presented the Command’s achievements for the year.

He said the successes were the result of proactive, intelligence-driven and community-centred policing, supported by collaboration with sister security agencies, vigilante groups, community volunteers, traditional rulers and civil society organisations.

According to the police boss, one of the Command’s major breakthroughs was the arrest of two prime suspects linked to the murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu, who was killed in her residence on November 24, 2025.

He revealed that a security guard attached to the late jurist’s residence, Godwin Mngumi, 25, was arrested on December 6 after being found in possession of one of her mobile phones.

The suspect allegedly confessed to inviting an accomplice, Nnaji Obalum, 21, to carry out the crime alongside another suspect still at large.

Police said the suspects tied the victim before killing her and dispossessing her of valuables, some of which have been recovered, while investigation continues.

In another operation, operatives of the State Anti-Cult Unit, in collaboration with community volunteers, engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun battle in Obiaruku forest on December 1, leading to the death of one suspect. An AK-47 rifle, 42 rounds of live ammunition, nine mobile phones and charms were recovered, while other suspects escaped with gunshot injuries.

CP Olufemi also announced the arrest of a 67-year-old suspect, Isiakpere Friday, in Abraka by operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team. The operation led to the recovery of two pump-action guns and 39 live cartridges, with investigations ongoing to determine links to criminal networks.

Similarly, between November 28 and 29, operatives of the CP-SAT dismantled an armed robbery and cult gang operating across Ughelli, Oghara and Sapele. Three suspects were arrested during the coordinated operations, while a locally made shotgun, a fabricated Beretta pistol, ammunition and two stolen tricycles were recovered.

The Command also recorded a major crackdown on drug activities. On December 10, operatives raided a notorious drug hideout in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, arresting 161 suspects, including 110 males and 51 females, and recovering large quantities of illicit drugs.

Another operation on December 13 led to the interception of a bus at the Asaba–Onitsha head bridge, where over 100 bottles of codeine and cartons of tramadol were seized and suspects arrested.

Providing a summary of the Command’s overall achievements, the Commissioner said a total of 144 firearms were recovered, including 27 AK-47/AK-49 rifles, 25 Beretta pistols, 56 single-barrel and locally fabricated guns, and 36 pump-action guns, alongside 6,930 rounds of ammunition.

He added that ₦36 million ransom was recovered, 18 kidnapped victims rescued and 28 vehicles recovered within the period.

CP Olufemi noted that the 627 suspects arrested comprised 140 suspected armed robbers, 113 suspected kidnappers, 125 murder suspects, 187 suspected cultists and 62 suspects linked to rape and defilement cases.

He commended officers and men of the Delta State Police Command for their dedication and professionalism, while also appreciating the media, community leaders and law-abiding citizens for their cooperation.

As the festive season approaches, the Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and law-abiding, assuring that the Command is fully prepared to ensure a safe, peaceful and secure Yuletide across the state.

He also released emergency control room numbers 08036684974; 08114895600 and 08025666914 for public use and wished Deltans a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Dennis Osadebay University Appoints Prof. Ogwezi as DVC (Administration)

By
Hill Nigeria
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Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, has announced the appointment of Professor (Mrs.) Joyce Ogho Ogwezi as the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), marking another historic milestone in the institution’s leadership and academic advancement.

The appointment has been widely welcomed within the university community and beyond, with academics describing it as a well-deserved recognition of Professor Ogwezi’s exceptional scholarship, leadership qualities, and dedication to institutional development.

Professor Ogwezi holds the distinction of being the first female Professor of Mass Communication at Delta State University and the first female Professor of Mass Communication across all universities in Delta State.

Her elevation to the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) further reinforces her trailblazing role in academia and university administration.

Congratulating her on the appointment, Associate Professor of Chemistry at DOU, Dr. Akpoveta Vincent, described the development as a historic achievement that reflects merit, integrity, and perseverance.

“Warmest congratulations to Professor (Mrs.) Joyce Ogho Ogwezi on her well-deserved appointment as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

“This historic milestone reflects her exceptional leadership, scholarly excellence, and unwavering commitment to academic advancement,” he said.

Dr. Akpoveta noted that Professor Ogwezi’s achievements continue to inspire women, scholars, and members of the academic community, proving that excellence and dedication remain key drivers of success in higher education.

He expressed confidence that her wealth of experience would significantly contribute to the growth, stability, and administrative efficiency of the university, while also commending the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ben Oghojafor, for finding her worthy of the appointment.

“Her appointment is not only a personal achievement but a source of pride to the entire academic community. We are confident that she will bring innovation, discipline, and excellence to the administration of the university,” he added.

The congratulatory message was issued by Dr. Akpoveta Vincent on behalf of Professor Ogwezi’s numerous academic admirers worldwide, who have continued to celebrate her contributions to teaching, research, and academic leadership.

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