Maritime University will consolidate on existing peace in Niger Delta ―Okowa

THE commencement of academic work at the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, the Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has described it as a good omen that will consolidate the existing peace and sustainable development of the Niger Delta.

The governor stated this on Tuesday when the Governing Council of the University, led by former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva who is the Chairman of the Council, paid him a call in Asaba.

TribuneOnline reports that Okerenkoko is located in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

“I am glad that academic activities have commenced; we thank God for the successful start-off of the Maritime University which will consolidate on the peace in the Niger Delta and attract sustainable development to the area.

“We are aware that the terrain is very difficult for the execution of projects and this is what the Governing Council will experience in defending its budget, the cost of executing projects in that area triples what it takes to execute similar projects in the upland,” he enthused.

According to him, “as a state government, we will continue to assist the much we can within the limit of resources to develop the university.”

“The Maritime University is the first of its kind in Nigeria; we hope you (the Governing Council) develop it to internationally acceptable standards.”

Responding, Chief Sylva told the Governor Okowa that the Governing Council was inaugurated on March 22, 2018 and commended his administration for its contributions to the development of the university.

The APC chieftain disclosed that more than 300 students are currently studying in the institution.