The people of the Niger Delta, particularly the Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, have expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the Act establishing the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko.
In a statement signed by High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the region acknowledged the historic significance of the President’s endorsement, describing it as a “heartwarming gesture” that has rekindled hope among the people.
The university, established in 2014, had operated for nearly a decade without the full legal backing needed for its complete operationalization. Tompolo noted that the absence of an enabling Act had left the institution struggling to function, likening it to being on “life support.”
“With your approval, Mr. President, you have breathed new life into this institution,” the statement read. “This milestone ratification will not only promote education among the indigenes of the Niger Delta but across Nigeria, while bridging the knowledge gap in the nation’s maritime sector.”
Tompolo recalled President Tinubu’s visit to Oporoza, the ancestral headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, in November 2022, where he pledged to sign the Act into law upon his election. He described the fulfillment of this promise as a testament to Tinubu’s commitment to national development and the empowerment of the Niger Delta region.
He further emphasized that the university would serve as a catalyst for economic growth, creating employment opportunities and reducing youth restiveness in the oil-rich region. “This university will not only bring development to the Niger Delta but will also enhance Nigeria’s capacity in maritime education, making us competitive in the West African subregion,” he added.
The statement urged the people of the South-South region to sustain the prevailing peace and rally behind President Tinubu’s administration to attract more developmental projects.
With this bold step, Mr. President, you have engraved your name in the hearts of Niger Deltans. We remain grateful and steadfast in our support for your government,” Tompolo affirmed.
