Diri to Deliver UNIPORT’s 35th Convocation Lecture, Pledges Legacy Project

Yenagoa, Bayelsa — Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has accepted the invitation to deliver the 35th convocation lecture at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) scheduled for July 25, 2025. The announcement followed a courtesy visit by UNIPORT’s management, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Owunari Georgewill, to the Government House in Yenagoa on Friday.

Prof. Georgewill expressed pride in Governor Diri, an alumnus of UNIPORT, highlighting the transformative progress Bayelsa State has witnessed under his leadership. “Bayelsa is experiencing rapid development across all sectors of the economy, thanks to Governor Diri’s administration,” the Vice Chancellor said. He also appealed to the governor to consider sponsoring a legacy infrastructure project to support the university’s growing population of students and staff.

In response, Governor Diri emphasized his commitment as an alumnus to actively participate in the institution’s activities. He praised UNIPORT’s management for upholding academic excellence and underscored the critical role of education in societal development. “Leaders who neglect education will face the consequences of rising crime,” he warned.

Governor Diri outlined his administration’s focus on shifting from mere paper qualifications to practical science, technical, and vocational education. He revealed that tuition-free technical colleges have been completed in six of Bayelsa’s eight local government areas, with contracts awarded for the remaining two. “Education is a priority. We are building science and vocational colleges in every local government area, providing free tuition, feeding, and accommodation,” he stated.

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He affirmed his readiness to deliver the convocation lecture, noting, “If I have done this for other institutions, UNIPORT should not be an exception.” He also approved the university’s request for a legacy infrastructure project, promising to give back to his alma mater in a meaningful way.

This development comes at a time when UNIPORT continues to strengthen its academic reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading universities, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Governor Diri’s engagement is expected to further inspire students and staff, reinforcing the vital link between governance, education, and community development.