Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara has credited his return to the Rivers State Government House after six-month of emergency rule to ‘special favour’ from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Fubara disclosed this during the combined 37th and 38th convocation of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, on Saturday.
He noted that many issues would not have arisen if democracy had not been temporarily interrupted in the state.
Addressing the issues raised by the RSU management, the governor said:
“Like you 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 went on to assure the institution’s stakeholders that his administration would resume full responsibilities, pledging to address the complaints raised during the convocation.
He added that satellite campuses outside Port Harcourt facing operational challenges would receive accelerated attention in 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,” Fubara said.
Congratulating the 13,242 graduates of the combined convocation, he said:
“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. ”
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, expressed delight presiding over his first convocation since his March 6, 2025, appointment by Governor Fubara. He highlighted progress under his administration, including accommodation for 40,000 students and full accreditation for all programmes.
Of the 13,242 graduates, 10,648 received first degrees, 2,594 completed postgraduate programmes, 157 earned First Class honours, 2,587 received Second Class Upper, and 6,275 were awarded Second Class Lower degrees.
