The United Nations has officially designated Rivers State University as a training centre under its Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), marking a significant milestone for the institution and the state.
The announcement was made during the UN Flag Raising Ceremony held at the university on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Speaking at the event, Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, described the development as a pivotal moment for intellectual advancement in the state.
“As we raise the flag today, we are witnessing the realization of a vision that connects local expertise with global excellence,” she said.
Prof. Odu commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whose birthday coincided with the event, for his steadfast support for educational and developmental initiatives, which she credited as instrumental in fostering the partnership with the UN.
The CIFAL Global Network Lead, Dr. Ebru Canan Sokullu, emphasized the significance of the Port Harcourt hub, noting that it would serve as a centre for knowledge sharing, technology, and innovation within the network of 31 international training centres spanning Asia, Oceania, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, highlighted the strategic importance of the university’s selection, stating that it would elevate the institution to a platform recognized by the UN for training individuals across various fields.
The event featured the signing of a memorandum of understanding and the hoisting of the United Nations flag, symbolizing the formal establishment of the centre.
