High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Alias Tompolo) Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation & Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), has expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the people of the Niger Delta to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the Act establishing the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU) in Okerenkoko, Delta State.
Recall that in a landmark decision, President Tinubu officially signed into law the Act establishing the NMU in Okerenkoko, Delta State, this move, which has been met with widespread appreciation, provides full legal backing to the institution and solidifies its role in Nigeria's maritime education and development.
The signing of the Act marks the culmination of a decade-long struggle for full recognition of the university. Established in 2014, NMU had functioned without an enabling law, limiting its growth and full operational potential. With this new legal status, the university is now positioned to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation's maritime sector.
High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, in a letter addressed to President Tinubu, highlighted the significance of the Act, describing it as a "heartwarming gesture" that has rekindled hope among the people of the region. He noted that the President’s action symbolizes a deep commitment to education, development, and the well-being of the Niger Delta.
"For a decade, the institution functioned but without full legal status. It was on life support, gasping for the desired breath to stay alive," the letter stated. "Your unexpected approval and signing of the Bill into law caught us unaware and brought with it a total feeling of euphoria. Now, the Act will provide the necessary legal framework for the university to thrive."
Beyond its impact on education, the establishment of NMU under a formal legal framework is expected to enhance manpower development in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Until now, Ghana was the only West African country with a maritime university. With Nigeria’s new legal commitment to NMU, the country is set to bridge the knowledge gap in the industry and enhance its standing in global maritime affairs.
Tompolo further emphasized that the university would spur economic growth in the Niger Delta by creating job opportunities, reducing youth restiveness, and fostering research and innovation. "The university will not only bring development to the oil and gas communities but will also serve as a catalyst for youth empowerment," he added.
The President’s decision has been widely regarded as a demonstration of his administration’s "Renewed Hope" agenda, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling promises made during his election campaign. Recalling President Tinubu’s visit to Oporoza, the ancestral headquarters of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, in November 2022, Tompolo noted that the President had pledged to sign the Act into law if elected. With this promise now fulfilled, expectations are high for further developmental strides in the region.
Leaders and stakeholders across the South-South region have welcomed the move, calling for sustained peace and unity to attract more federal investments. The Act, they believe, will serve as a foundation for greater advancements in education and economic development in the Niger Delta.
“With this landmark achievement, President Tinubu has further cemented his relationship with the Niger Delta people, gaining their unwavering support. Many now look forward to additional policies and initiatives that will continue to uplift the region and the nation at large.”
