The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), has reaffirmed that educational development will remain a central focus of his administration.
Speaking at the 43rd Convocation Ceremony of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt on Saturday, Ibas, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, emphasized the significance of the event’s theme, “The University Culture in Practice: The IAUE Experience.”
According to him, the theme is particularly relevant at a time when higher institutions must rise above mediocrity and aim for excellence.
“It is encouraging to see IAUE demonstrate its dedication to academic excellence, institutional growth, and responsible leadership,” he said. “A vibrant university culture not only imparts knowledge but also fosters transformation. It bridges the gap between learning and leadership, between knowledge and character. It prepares young men and women not just for employment, but for meaningful citizenship.”
Vice Admiral Ibas praised the university’s leadership for securing full accreditation of 47 academic programmes, verifying new departments, and successfully implementing the National Universities Commission (NUC)’s Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards. He described these achievements as not just regulatory compliance, but evidence of vision and commitment.
“I am pleased with the notable progress made under the Acting Vice Chancellor, particularly in the areas of programme accreditation, infrastructure renewal, and enforcement of institutional discipline. Education remains a cardinal pillar of this administration,” he added.
Addressing the 2,887 first-degree graduates and 1,492 postgraduate recipients, he urged them to uphold the values instilled in them by the university and continue pursuing knowledge.
“I encourage you to rise above distractions and embrace the higher calling of education — to become builders of a better society. We will not condone cultism, fraud, harassment, or any form of indiscipline in our tertiary institutions. Let us jointly uphold zero tolerance for academic misconduct.”
Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume — who received an honorary Doctor of Letters — announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of several specialized universities. These include the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Osun State; the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Rivers State; and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Science in Ekiti State. He also noted the upgrade of 38 federal and state technical colleges across the country.
In his remarks, Acting Vice Chancellor of IAUE, Prof. Okechuku Onuchuku, said the convocation theme was carefully selected to emphasize the importance of embracing university traditions and intellectual values in addition to academic achievement.
“Ignatius Ajuru University of Education has come of age. It’s time to show our stakeholders and development partners that this institution is progressing in all areas of academic and administrative operations,” he said. “Celebrate today, but understand that this marks a new chapter in your career and personal journey. You must prove to the world that you truly earned the certificates and accolades.”
He disclosed that among the 1,492 postgraduate graduates, 306 were awarded PhDs, 812 received Master’s degrees, and 374 earned Postgraduate Diplomas.
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