by Uchechukwu Okoroafor, Abuja
In a spectacular blend of nostalgia, pride, and forward-looking vision, the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) marked its 35th Convocation Ceremony and 50th Anniversary with a grand celebration that brought together the nation’s top dignitaries, academia, alumni, and global partners. At the heart of the celebration was an impassioned address by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Senator Mao Arukwe Ohuabunwa, PhD, who delivered a stirring tribute to the University’s journey from humble beginnings to national prestige.
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Describing UniPort as “a beacon of knowledge, a crucible of innovation, and a bastion of character-building,” Senator Ohuabunwa lauded five decades of academic excellence, research breakthroughs, and social transformation that have defined the institution.
Honouring Giants, Inspiring Generations
The ceremony was graced by notable guests, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON. Others present included the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. (Dr.) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON.
A key highlight of the event was the conferment of honorary degrees on distinguished Nigerians for their exemplary service and national impact. Honorees included:
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Barr. (Dr.) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister and former Governor of Rivers State
Rt. (Hon.) Bello Aminu Masari, former Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of TETFund
Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State
“These individuals have not only shaped landscapes but also transformed lives through service and sacrifice,” said Ohuabunwa.
From Modest Beginnings to National Prominence
Founded in 1975 as a college of the University of Lagos, UniPort has risen to become one of Nigeria’s foremost universities. From its early days, the institution embraced a mission not just to educate, but to transform society—one graduate at a time.
Senator Ohuabunwa paid tribute to the university’s founding fathers and successive leaderships, commending their vision of creating a truly national and global university. Today, UniPort boasts 17 faculties, a thriving postgraduate school, research institutes, and an alumni base that has left its mark in government, academia, business, and global development.
“Our alumni include former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, Governors Alex Otti and Douye Diri, former Transport Minister Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, and a host of others,” the Pro-Chancellor noted. “They continue to reaffirm our founding mission and inspire new generations.”
Pioneering Innovation and Research
UniPort’s strategic location in the oil-rich but politically delicate Niger Delta has driven its role as a research hub, particularly in energy, environmental sustainability, conflict resolution, and community development.
“Through partnerships with global and local organizations—from the NNPC to the University of Bonn—UniPort is contributing to solving global problems from a local perspective,” said Ohuabunwa.
Notable among the University’s infrastructure developments are the newly completed School of Basic Medical Sciences Complex, a world-class Ultra-Modern Library, and enhanced ICT facilities. The university is also set to benefit from a solar power plant courtesy of the Rural Electrification Agency, aimed at tackling power challenges that have long hampered academic activities.
Building for the Future: The UniPort Vision
Looking ahead, UniPort is focused on bold transformations. With a strategic four-year development plan underway, the university is seeking to enhance digital learning, prioritize sustainable development and artificial intelligence, and create a more inclusive academic community.
Senator Ohuabunwa announced the launch of a ₦10 billion Endowment Fund, part of which will fund major projects such as:
A new Faculty of Engineering building
An expanded College of Health Sciences
A Council Office Complex
And a proposed Center for Political Studies in Abuja
“Education must be seen not as a cost, but as an investment. An investment in people, peace, and prosperity,” he emphasized.
Celebrating the Unsung Heroes
In a moment of heartfelt appreciation, the Pro-Chancellor praised UniPort’s staff and students as the true engine behind its success.
“No institution can rise above the quality of its people,” he stated, acknowledging the promotions of over 70 professors and 56 readers, as well as continued professional development initiatives for both academic and non-academic staff.
He also expressed deep gratitude to the Federal Government, TETFUND, NDDC, NLNG, NIMASA, NCMDB, PTDF, private sector donors, and the university’s alumni for their unwavering support.
A Clarion Call to All Stakeholders
Senator Ohuabunwa concluded with a rallying call for all stakeholders to recommit to UniPort’s vision:
> “Let us not just celebrate this moment; let us invest in its promise. UniPort must remain the pride of the Niger Delta, a jewel of Nigerian academia, and a respected name in global higher education. The university is not just a physical space—it is a sanctuary of excellence. Its progress is our collective responsibility.”
As the curtain fell on the week-long celebration, the golden jubilee was more than a milestone—it was a bold declaration of a future filled with innovation, excellence, and hope.