Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has pledged full backing to the newly established Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoniland, promising infrastructural support and strategic partnerships to ensure a successful takeoff.
The commitment was made on Tuesday when Ibas hosted a high-level delegation from the university at Government House, Port Harcourt. The team was led by Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Don Baridam, and included Pioneer Vice Chancellor, Professor Prince Chinedu Mmom, alongside other senior officials.
Welcoming the delegation, Ibas described the university’s establishment as “timely and strategic,” noting its potential to address the Niger Delta’s developmental and environmental challenges. He assured immediate intervention in areas including campus facilities, vehicles, access roads, land documentation, and waste management to accelerate the start of academic activities.
“This university is more than an institution; it is a historic opportunity to shape a legacy impacting Rivers State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria as a whole,” Ibas said. He further pledged to engage development agencies, the private sector, and relevant ministries to support the institution’s growth.
Professor Mmom confirmed that the university, formally established by law on February 3, 2025, is set to begin academic activities in September. He emphasized the institution’s focus on environmental and developmental research tailored to the Niger Delta, while acknowledging ongoing challenges including infrastructure, land certification, and logistics.
Pro-Chancellor Baridam expressed appreciation for the state government’s support, reiterating the leadership’s commitment to developing a center of excellence that will contribute to regional and national development.
The delegation noted that Rivers State, now home to two federal universities, stands to gain from increased employment, student enrollment, and strengthened research collaborations. Memoranda of Understanding have already been signed with the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University, and Bori Polytechnic.
Both parties reaffirmed their shared vision to position the Federal University of Environment and Technology as a hub for innovation and sustainable development, with expected benefits across the Niger Delta and Nigeria’s higher education sector.
