Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degree in Social and Economic Development by the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko. The award was presented during the institution’s 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerowho Tonukari, Governor Oborevwori expressed profound appreciation to the university for the recognition, describing it as a tribute to the resilience of the Delta people and the collective efforts of his administration. “I receive this recognition not merely as a personal honour but as a tribute to the resilient spirit of our people, the tireless efforts of our administration, and the shared vision we hold for a more inclusive Delta State and a prosperous Nigeria,” the governor said.

Oborevwori extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and the entire university management, noting that the award affirms the institution’s commitment to recognizing leadership, service, and contributions to societal development. “This award is especially meaningful, not only because it comes from a distinguished institution in the riverine heartland of our state but also because it affirms the enduring value of service, commitment, and belief in the transformative power of education,” he added.

The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering belief in education as the most enduring investment any government could offer its citizens. He praised the NMU as a beacon of hope and a driver of development in communities historically marginalized. “Since its establishment, the Nigerian Maritime University has provided world-class education in maritime studies and fostered human capital development essential to unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s blue economy,” he stated.

Oborevwori highlighted the strategic importance of the institution and noted the state’s continued support in partnership with the Federal Government to enhance security, improve infrastructure, and contribute to NMU’s overall development. “Our administration, guided by the M.O.R.E Agenda, has supported key projects such as the construction and donation of a faculty complex and the development of a connecting road from the host community to the university’s permanent site,” he said.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Emmanuel Adigio, commended Governor Oborevwori for the construction of a faculty building and the road linking Okerenkoko community to the university’s permanent site. The ceremony also honored Senator James Manager and Engr. Ebipador Ogionwo with Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degrees in National Development and Industrial Development, respectively.