Education
NCDMB, Seplat Advance Plans for Gas Development Centre at DELSU
By Ukiri Emraghogho
Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, is set to host a Centre of Excellence in Gas Development as the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Seplat Energy Plc have concluded key implementation plans for the take-off of the research facility.
The project, approved for the university in 2024, was the focus of a high-level meeting held on Monday, April 13, 2026, between officials of the NCDMB, Seplat Energy and the university’s management.
The Centre of Excellence is part of the NCDMB’s initiative to strengthen research and development (R&D), innovation and local content in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. It is based on a 10-year R&D roadmap developed by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and joins similar centres established in selected Nigerian universities.
Speaking at the meeting, the Director of Corporate Services, NCDMB, Dr. Abdulmalik Halilu, who represented the Board’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the Board and Seplat Energy had worked together since 2024 to develop a comprehensive implementation framework for the project.
According to him, the approved scope covers infrastructure, modern research equipment, capacity development, research policy and sustainability, all aimed at establishing a world-class research centre.
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Dr. Halilu disclosed that both organisations had endorsed the implementation plan and assembled a team of technical experts to supervise execution. He added that the Board’s standing committee on the project had been strengthened with additional senior officials to ensure effective delivery.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Executive Secretary to the project, noting that specialists in quality assurance, research and development, and other operational units had been deployed to ensure the successful implementation of the facility.
Also speaking, Seplat Energy’s Nigerian Content Manager, Mr. Simeon Ogari, said DELSU was selected because of its proximity to the company’s major operations, including the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, a joint venture between Seplat Energy and the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC).
Ogari said the Centre of Excellence would serve as a hub for advanced research, technological innovation and capacity development, benefiting the university, the oil and gas industry and the Nigerian economy.
He stressed that collaboration among government, universities and the private sector would be essential to the centre’s success, describing the arrangement as the globally recognised Triple Helix Model for driving research and innovation.
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Explaining the background to the initiative, the Chief Executive Officer of GOSHEN, the consulting firm managing the project, Mr. Leonard Okafor, said the PwC study revealed gaps in Nigeria’s research and industrial linkages, making stronger local participation in the oil and gas sector necessary.
He explained that the report identified five priority areas for strengthening research and development in the industry: collaboration, infrastructure, capability development, commercial and legal framework, and funding.
Okafor added that the success of the project would depend on strong collaboration with experienced researchers and institutions capable of producing high-quality scientific research. He also outlined the responsibilities of DELSU, including providing research and administrative personnel as well as institutional policies required for the smooth operation of the centre.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of DELSU, Professor Samuel Oghenovo Asagba, thanked the NCDMB and Seplat Energy for choosing the university to host the world-class research facility.
He assured the partners that the university would meet all requirements for the successful establishment and sustainability of the centre.
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Professor Asagba noted that DELSU, ranked by Times Higher Education in 2026 as Nigeria’s best state-owned university, possesses experienced researchers, particularly in science and engineering, who are well positioned to contribute to the project’s objectives.
“Our academics are renowned for their research output, and we have outstanding scholars in science and engineering who will support the success of this initiative,” he said.
The General Manager, Quality Assurance, NCDMB, Mr. Chris Osuji, said his department would monitor every stage of the project to ensure that the facility meets the highest quality standards.
In his vote of thanks, the Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, NCDMB, Mr. Silas Ajimijaye, commended Seplat Energy for funding the project and urged DELSU to maximise the opportunity to become a leading centre for gas research and innovation.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Douglason Omotor, expressed appreciation to the NCDMB and Seplat Energy for the initiative, assuring them that the university would provide experienced academics and skilled administrators to support the successful implementation of the project.
The Centre of Excellence in Gas Development is expected to strengthen scientific research, promote technological innovation, advance local content development and produce the skilled manpower needed to support Nigeria’s growing gas industry. The initiative also reinforces collaboration among government, academia and industry in advancing research-driven national development.
Abraka Metro
Academic Activities Intensify Across DELSU Abraka Campuses 1 and 2
By Akpiri Benita
Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, has remained busy with academic and student activities across Campuses (Sites) 1 and 2 as the second semester progresses. Students have continued attending lectures, preparing for examinations, participating in research, and taking part in campus programs designed to improve learning and student welfare.
One of the most discussed issues on both campuses in recent weeks has been the condition of the night reading halls. Students using the facilities at Sites 1 and 2 have appealed to the university management for improved electricity, better lighting, and upgraded study facilities. Many students said the reading halls remain important for exam preparation, especially during evening study sessions.
Academic activities have continued without interruption, with lecture halls recording strong attendance as students complete coursework, practical sessions, seminars, and departmental assignments. Libraries and ICT centers have also remained active as students prepare for continuous assessments and examinations.
The university administration has also continued implementing academic and administrative updates, including appointments of heads of departments and other institutional activities aimed at strengthening teaching and learning across the university.
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Students on Campus 2 have continued to make use of administrative offices, the university library, and ICT facilities for registration, academic inquiries, and project work. Student organizations have also been organizing meetings and leadership activities that encourage participation in campus life.
Across both campuses, security personnel have maintained regular patrols while environmental sanitation exercises have helped keep lecture areas and walkways clean. Students have also been encouraged to observe campus regulations and contribute to maintaining a peaceful learning environment.
As the semester advances, students remain focused on achieving academic success while calling for continued improvements in campus infrastructure, particularly reliable electricity and better study facilities. Many believe that these improvements will further enhance the quality of learning and student life at Delta State University, Abraka.
Abraka Metro
SUG: The Pillar Of Justice, Unity, And Student Welfare In DELSU
By Ajirioghene Ederehor
In every higher institution, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) serves as the collective voice of the student body, championing students’ rights and promoting their welfare. At Delta State University (DELSU), the role of the SUG extends far beyond organising social activities or coordinating campus events. It has become a symbol of justice, unity, and student representation, making its contributions to the university community impossible to overlook.
Justice remains one of the fundamental pillars upon which the SUG operates. Every student deserves to be treated fairly, regardless of their background, faculty, department, or level of study. The union serves as an intermediary between students and the university administration, ensuring that legitimate complaints and concerns are addressed through appropriate channels. Whether advocating for fair treatment, engaging the university management on student-related issues, or promoting peaceful dialogue during challenging moments, the SUG continues to uphold the principles of fairness and accountability.
Beyond justice, the SUG plays a significant role in fostering unity within the DELSU community. Delta State University is home to students from different ethnic groups, religions, cultures, and social backgrounds. Despite these differences, the union consistently promotes peaceful coexistence and mutual respect through cultural festivals, sporting competitions, orientation programmes, leadership conferences, and other student-centred activities. These initiatives strengthen relationships among students and create an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated rather than a source of division.
Student welfare remains at the heart of the union’s responsibilities. From advocating for improved learning conditions to organising health campaigns, educational seminars, skill acquisition programmes, and community service initiatives, the SUG continually seeks ways to improve students’ overall experience on campus. Programmes such as free medical outreaches, awareness campaigns, and empowerment initiatives demonstrate the union’s commitment to ensuring that students thrive both academically and personally.
Student Feedback
Theophilus Daniel, a 100-level Political Science student, said in an interview: “The SUG is really doing an awesome job, especially in the area of student welfare. They take it very seriously, and that is highly appreciated. May God continue to uplift them in Jesus’ name.”
Another student, Ryan Peter, a 200-level Education student, also shared her opinion: “Since I gained admission into this great institution called DELSU, the SUG has positively impacted my studies through educational programmes and activities that broaden students’ knowledge. They are doing wonderful work, and I encourage them to continue. Their reward is close.”
The SUG also serves as a platform for leadership development. Student leaders gain practical experience in governance, negotiation, communication, conflict resolution, and public service. These experiences prepare them for greater responsibilities beyond the university and contribute to the development of responsible citizens who can make meaningful contributions to society.
However, the effectiveness of any Students’ Union depends not only on its elected executives but also on the active participation of the students it represents. Constructive engagement, responsible criticism, and collective support enable the union to perform its duties more effectively while remaining accountable to the student body.
As DELSU continues to grow as one of Nigeria’s leading universities, the importance of a vibrant and responsive Students’ Union Government cannot be overstated. The SUG remains a vital institution that protects students’ interests, promotes peaceful coexistence, and works tirelessly to improve campus life. Its commitment to justice, unity, and student welfare continues to strengthen the university community and inspire confidence among the students it serves.
Indeed, the Students’ Union Government is more than a representative body. It is the pillar upon which justice, unity, and student welfare stand at Delta State University. By remaining committed to these ideals, the SUG will continue to shape a stronger, more inclusive, and more progressive DELSU for generations to come.
Abraka Metro
DELSU SUG Successfully Concludes SUG Week
By Deborah Efetobor
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Delta State University (DELSU) has successfully wrapped up its annual flagship event, SUG Week. The Synergy, after a vibrant nine-day celebration that energized students across the Abraka main campus and other campuses.
The programme, held from July 4 to July 12, 2026, featured a diverse lineup of activities aimed at promoting unity, talent development, and student growth.
Key highlights included a grand rally and praise festival, intellectual debate competitions, sports finals, cultural fiesta, a trade fair for student entrepreneurs, suya/bole night, pageantry, and a grand Award Night to honour outstanding students and leaders.
Speaking on the event, organizers noted that the theme “The Synergy” was carefully chosen to emphasize collective participation, collaboration, and shared purpose within the student community.
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The week provided platforms for networking, entertainment, cultural expression, sports, advocacy, and business opportunities, allowing students to connect, showcase their talents, and actively contribute to campus life.
This year’s edition further demonstrates the current SUG administration’s strong commitment to student welfare and vibrant campus engagement.
The union has sustained several initiatives, including the renovation of the SUG Secretariat and other projects targeted at improving the overall student experience.
Students and university stakeholders have commended the well-organized programme for fostering a strong sense of belonging and encouraging development beyond academics. Notably, the week recorded no major incidents, reflecting a peaceful and successful execution.
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The DELSU SUG continues to play an active role in campus advocacy, with indications of more student-focused programmes in the coming months
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