ASABA/Nigeria: Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, is set to host its maiden convocation ceremony this week, marking a major milestone in the institution’s history barely a few years after its establishment.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ben E.A. Oghojafor, a Professor of Strategic and Entrepreneurial Management, disclosed this on Monday during a press conference held at the university’s main auditorium ahead of the convocation ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Prof. Oghojafor described the forthcoming ceremony as a defining moment for the young institution, reflecting on its steady growth since inception in 2021.
“We have come a long way,” he said. “From a modest enrolment of 651 students at inception to over 5,800 students in the current academic session, our growth is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence.”
He highlighted key achievements recorded by the university, including the construction of modern academic and administrative facilities, the establishment of a fully equipped digital library and the introduction of innovative programmes in computing and allied medical sciences.
“Our goal is to produce globally competitive graduates who are locally relevant,” the Vice-Chancellor emphasised.
Providing further details, Oghojafor said the university currently has 8,672 staff, including 467 academic staff, and runs 86 programmes across six faculties. He noted that all programmes have secured full accreditation, except for 35 awaiting final decisions.
According to him, a total of 416 students from 28 programmes will be awarded degrees at the maiden convocation. The graduating class includes 25 First Class Honours, 167 Second Class Honours (Upper Division), 185 Second Class Honours (Lower Division) and 39 Third Class Honours.
He also announced that the overall best graduating student, Mike-Ogisi Regina Chukwufunmanya, has already qualified as a chartered accountant, describing the feat as a reflection of the institution’s academic standards.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government and the people of the state, particularly former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, for the opportunity to serve as pioneer Vice-Chancellor.
“Serving as pioneer Vice-Chancellor has been a sour and sweet experience,” he remarked, noting that the journey had been both challenging and rewarding.
Oghojafor outlined activities lined up for the convocation week. The convocation lecture is scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Founder’s Day Lecture on Friday, March 6. The degree-awarding ceremony will hold on Saturday, March 7, at 10:00 a.m.
He said the university has made significant strides in infrastructure development, including the construction of student hostels and faculty blocks, while the digital library boasts modern facilities and uninterrupted power supply.
Highlighting the institution’s entrepreneurial focus, he said DOU is committed to training future employers rather than job seekers, adding that the university has attracted visiting professors and lecturers from established institutions to strengthen academic delivery.
“Our growth is anchored on diligence, hard work and vision. We are intentional about producing students who are worthy in learning and character,” he said.
The convocation ceremony will also feature an exhibition and alumni reception, providing opportunities for networking and showcasing the university’s facilities.
Prof. Oghojafor concluded that the maiden convocation represents a significant step in DOU’s aspiration to become a world-class institution, inviting members of the media and the public to be part of the historic event.
