The Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, Delta State, has formally sent forth its immediate past Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Adigio, amid glowing tributes that underscored his far-reaching impact on the institution’s growth and stability.
The colourful ceremony, held recently in Warri, was organised by the Chairman and members of the Governing Council in honour of the university’s second Vice Chancellor. The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Abdullahi Nedanda Bardi, led the event, which was also attended by the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Flora Tobolayefa Oluwafemi.
Council members, deans, directors, heads of departments and staff turned out in large numbers to celebrate Adigio’s five-year tenure, describing him as an exemplary administrator, consensus builder and committed team player.
Several speakers noted that his leadership style fostered stability and unity within the young institution, with one tribute remarking that “even the students miss him every day.”
A detailed video presentation by Dr. Fatimah Abduldayan highlighted the significant strides recorded under Adigio’s leadership, portraying a Vice Chancellor who steadily reshaped the university’s development profile within a short period.
Among his landmark achievements were the introduction of solar power supply, the provision of reliable pipe-borne water on both campuses, and major infrastructural expansion through the construction of new hostel facilities at Kurutie and Okerenkoko. His tenure also witnessed the full accreditation of all academic programmes in the university’s curriculum, a critical milestone for the institution’s academic credibility.
Under his watch, NMU also gained visibility in extracurricular activities, recording notable successes at inter-university sports competitions.
Speaking at the event, Professor Adigio expressed gratitude to the university community for the opportunity to serve and for the overwhelming appreciation shown to him.
“I am grateful to have been given the chance to do my possible best to raise the profile of the Nigeria Maritime University,” he said. “I have no doubt that my successor will improve on what we have done and attract even greater attention to the university as a federal institution with a special mandate.”
Professor Adigio, a Professor of Mechanical Engineering, was appointed Vice Chancellor by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He succeeded the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Professor Ongoebi Maureen Etebu, and completed his statutory five-year term on June 20, 2025.
He has since handed over to Professor Flora Tobolayefa Oluwafemi, a daughter of Gbaramatu Kingdom, the host community of the university—marking a new chapter for the Nigeria Maritime University built on the foundations laid during his tenure.
