Dafinone donates bus, inspires innovation at Delta Poly

In a rare display of commitment to educational advancement, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central, has presented an 18-seater bus to the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, an act he described as “only the beginning” of greater interventions to come.

The presentation, met with rousing applause, marked a historic visit that quickly evolved into a broader dialogue on leadership, innovation, and federal collaboration. The bus, initially requested by a former SUG president, now stands as a symbol of promise and partnership between the institution and its representative in the National Assembly.

“This bus is symbolic,” said Dafinone during his address. “You need nine more to truly solve the transport challenge, but this visit will generate the visibility needed to attract greater support. I promise to do more.”

Welcoming the senator, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, hailed the moment as unprecedented.

“To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time a senator has visited our polytechnic and stepped into the Rector’s office,” he stated. “It’s a testament to humility. Some senators are unreachable, but here you are clapping and singing with students.”

He went on to applaud the Dafinone family’s legacy in education and industry, noting: “Without any iota of flattery, I believe his family holds the record for the highest number of chartered accountants in the world.”

Senator Dafinone affirmed the institution’s growing federal visibility, particularly through TETFund projects already established on campus. “This means you’re in Abuja’s line of sight,” he said. “We’ll build on that and connect you to agencies ready to support schools that show initiative.”

Addressing the students directly, Dafinone emphasised the value of practical skills alongside academic achievement.

“This certificate you’re pursuing is important, but the world is also looking for people with skills,” he said. “You can earn up to ₦200,000 a month through agriculture. With one or two acres of land and a few hours a day, you can build a future.”

In a show of the Polytechnic’s ingenuity, Professor Ufuophu-Biri showcased a locally developed wireless generator that runs without fuel, crediting the breakthrough to a culture of unity and innovation. “This is an institution where education truly meets enterprise,” he declared.

Dafinone’s address concluded with a message of national optimism. “Many think oil and gas are Nigeria’s greatest assets. I disagree—it’s our people. Nigerians thrive across the globe. That same potential is in you,” he said. “What you do with your time here will shape this country’s future.”

The senator also toured newly completed facilities, including a soon-to-be-inaugurated administrative building, and received an invitation to attend the convocation ceremony on 31 May 2025, to be officiated by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

As he handed over the bus keys to student leaders, Dafinone remarked: “This bus belongs to you. Let it be a reminder that your voice was heard—and that more is coming.”

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE