Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, has felicitated with the former State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, on his 68th birthday, describing him as the visionary leader whose foresight gave birth to the institution and transformed it into a centre of academic excellence.
In a statement signed by the Rector, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, on behalf of the Governing Council, management, staff and students, the Polytechnic praised Ibori’s enduring legacy, saying his administration laid the foundation for one of Delta State’s foremost tertiary institutions.
The institution described the former governor as a “visionary leader, champion of resource control and political statesman,” whose commitment to education continues to shape generations of students years after leaving office.
According to the Rector, Ibori’s administration established three state polytechnics during his tenure as governor between 1999 and 2007, with Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, emerging as one of the enduring symbols of that educational revolution.
The Polytechnic said the institution, which began with only three departments under Ibori’s administration, has witnessed remarkable expansion over the years.
It noted that the school now operates 53 academic programmes, attributing the growth to sustained investments in infrastructure and human capital initiated during the former governor’s tenure.
“Our infrastructure and human-capital development have expanded by leaps and bounds. Our graduates are excelling locally and globally,” the statement said.
The institution also showered accolades on Ibori, describing him as the “Odidigborigbo of Africa” and the “Eni of Oghara Kingdom,” saying words were insufficient to express its appreciation for his foresight in establishing the Polytechnic.
According to the statement, the institution has evolved into “a symbol of excellence and a platform for destiny fulfillment,” producing graduates who are making meaningful contributions within Nigeria and beyond.
The polytechnic, however, prayed for continued good health, long life, political advancement and divine protection for the former Delta governor.
