By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu has applauded the establishment of Maritime University, located in Okerenkoko, Delta State, in the oil-rich Niger Delta region of the country, saying it has assisted in enhancing peace.
Established in May 2015, the university was part of efforts to address militancy in the region, sparked by environmental degradation, prolonged neglect of oil-producing communities as well as pollution of water where locals conduct fishing activities.
“Since the establishment of the university, peace has returned to the entire Niger Delta region, which in the past has been a hotshot of crisis and militancy,” said the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who spoke on Tinubu’s behalf at the university’s maiden convocation.
“That is the pivotal role that this university is playing in the peace of the region.”
The President noted that the institution was statutorily established eight years ago by the Federal Government as the country’s “premier maritime university” and commenced academic activities in the 2017/2018 academic session.
Congratulating the Chancellor, King Alfred Diete Spiff Seriatu, the Amayanabo of Twon-Brass in Bayelsa State, on the “all-important occasion”, Tinubu believes the graduation ceremony will serve as a stepping stone for better things to come.
He also extended well wishes to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Munakurogha Adigio; other principal officers of the university; members of the Senate; deans of faculty; the university’s staff and students; and the Gbaramatu people of Delta State, who make up the host community.
“It is my pleasure to celebrate with you this milestone moment, the graduation of the first set of students from the Nigerian Maritime University,” Tinubu said.
