ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s approval to extend the retirement age of associate professors in state-owned universities from 65 to 70 years is a strategic effort to strengthen academic mentorship, deepen postgraduate studies, and align with national education policy.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, disclosed this in an interview, describing the move as both compassionate and necessary to support the growing needs of Delta’s university system. He said the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to educational excellence and institutional growth.
Tonukari explained that while the Federal Government amended the law in 2012 to raise the retirement age for professors to 70, the implementation in Delta had been limited to Delta State University. With Governor Oborevwori’s recent directive, the policy now applies across all state universities.
He dismissed fears that the extension would stifle opportunities for younger academics, noting that over 600 academic and non-academic staff have been employed since 2023 due to institutional expansion and accreditation efforts. He highlighted ongoing development in campuses at Ozoro, Asaba, Agbor, and the new Southern Delta University site in Orerokpe.
Tonukari stressed that the extended retirement age is crucial for building strong postgraduate programmes, allowing experienced lecturers to mentor junior staff and drive academic excellence. He reaffirmed the administration’s focus on education as a pillar of long-term development and capacity building in the state.
