Prof. Samuel Asagba Celebrates One Year in Office as DELSU VC

The Vice Chancellor of the Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba; has given an account of his stewardship for the past one year he has been on the saddle.

Briefing newsmen on the anniversary celebration, the renowned Professor of Environmental Biochemistry and Toxicology, who took over from Prof. Andy Egwunyenga as VC on December 1, 2024; said he had remained focused on driving the founding vision of DELSU: to encourage advancement of learning throughout Delta State and Nigeria, offer liberal education to all without discrimination, advance knowledge, wisdom, and understanding through teaching and research, as well as serve humanity through academic pursuit.

Prof. Asagba stated that he came prepared to position DELSU as a leading University renowned for academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, social responsibility, and global competitiveness, adding that his mission was to transform the institution through high-quality education, sustainable development, strong governance, innovation, and inclusive stakeholder engagement.

He pointed out that his Implementation Blueprint included to leverage SWOT analysis to guide strategy, advance approved strategic plan and financial goals, generate, manage, and conserve resources effectively.

The VC explained that the committed pursuit of his vision and mission, coupled with the ingenuity, diligence, dedication and cooperation of the management and staff had helped DELSU to become the best State University in Nigeria, the best University in the South South and South East, and the 12th in the ranking of Universities in Nigeria.

The former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), former Provost, Asaba campus, former Dean, Faculty of Science and one-time HOD of Biochemistry, articulated his milestone achievements to include, development of a result engine for collation and processing of results, recruitment of more programmers, revamping of the examination centre, merging of DIDC with ICT, computerization of records e.g staff directory and On-line screening process for new students

According to him, other initiatives aimed at upgrading ICT infrastructure included, medical screening schedule/development of a new integrated portal system, separation of the portal from payment gateway, facelift of ICT building, On-line payments for certificates and other registry services, upgrade of exam centers A and B at site 3 Abraka with over 600 systems, upgrade of CBT center at Oleh campus with 200 systems, enhancement of Faculty of Law CBT center with 100 systems, and also 100 systems for the Faculty of Engineering CBT center.

The VC thanked his ICT team, which he said was “like a young stallion, untamed and full of energy, galloping freely in the field of challenges, and eager to prove themselves, untracked, unbridled and ready to race”. 

On infrastructure development, Prof. Asagba said the road linking Basic Medical Sciences to the Faculty of Arts was completed in 6 weeks, 500-seater theatre undergoing renovation, Faculty of Agriculture Complex already at DPC level, while the renovation of halls A, B, C and D, Weekend degree hall and Biochemistry laboratory were all in progress.

He also highlighted the renovation of Physics laboratory, AEB laboratory, renovation and creation of more office spaces in Faculties of Science and Pharmacy, as well as old library for the use of Senate services division, provision of fast optic fibre-based internet services, repair and maintenance of laboratory equipment and air conditioners, purchase of laptops, Desk-tops, Air conditioners and executive tables and chairs.

The erudite scholar said DELSU, under his watch, had continued to sustain the current work-study programme for students, upgraded counselling services to students and always carried along the Students’ Union Executive in decision making through constant engagement and dialogue. 

“The University has sponsored the Students’ Union Executive to various short courses/seminars that will not only help them acquire necessary leadership skills but also make them responsible citizens on graduation.

“Appropriate channels have been created for students to lodge their complaints. Adequate and effective medical care and sporting facilities have been provided for students. Under the current leadership, there was no increment in school fees – a strategy designed to alleviate parents’ financial burden. 

“In conclusion, as I reflect on my first year as Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University, I am filled with gratitude to GOD almighty for HIS grace and wisdom in piloting the affairs of DELSU. 

“My profound gratitude goes to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State, for appointing me as Vice Chancellor and for his continued support toward advancing the development of the University. We have made significant strides in advancing our institution’s mission and I am confident that our momentum will continue.

“I extend my appreciation to our students, staff and other stakeholders for their support”, the VC stated.

Other activities to mark the one year in office were presentation of awards, music rendition, carols, and drama presentation by the Theatre Arts Department.