By Anne Azuka
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to providing functional and high-quality education across the state.
Speaking on a national television program monitored in Asaba over the weekend, Aniagwu emphasized the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete in a globalized world.
Addressing concerns about the abandoned Sapele Polytechnic project at Deghele-Iriabome communities in Elume District, Sapele Local Government Area, he assured that the state government remains committed to strategic investment in education rather than establishing institutions for political reasons.
Aniagwu highlighted that education should not be treated like a business venture where institutions are created without assessing their long-term viability.
“Education is not like opening a biscuit shop where everybody can come and buy biscuits. There is a reason for establishing institutions, and we need to focus on quality and functionality rather than just expansion.”
He referenced the 2016 Delta State Education Summit, where experts conducted a **needs assessment** to improve the state’s education system and reduce prolonged academic disruptions caused by strikes.
“The goal of the summit was to ensure that our students receive a globally competitive education. Our focus is on accessible and functional institutions, rather than simply increasing the number of higher institutions for political reasons.”
Aniagwu explained that before the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State had:
– Three polytechnics in Ogwashi-Uku, Ozoro, and Otefe-Oghara
– Three colleges of education, each located in one of the three senatorial districts
– Delta State University (DELSU) with its main campus in Abraka and additional campuses in Anwai-Asaba and Oleh
The government then conducted a feasibility study that revealed a growing demand for university education, leading to the establishment of three new universities:
1. Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro (converted from the Polytechnic at Ozoro)
2. Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba
3. University of Delta, Agbor (converted from the College of Education, Agbor)
“In Nigeria today, no state can boast of the number of state-owned higher institutions that Delta has. Out of our ten federal constituencies, nine have a higher institution.”
Aniagwu noted that Delta State stands out because no higher institution in the state has gone on strike in the last nine and a half years.
“While universities across the country were affected by strikes, our schools continued uninterrupted. This is because the government ensures that institutions’ needs are met, prioritizing functionality and stability.”
The commissioner clarified that while more institutions may be established in the future, expansion will be done steadily and strategically.
“We are not abandoning any institution, but we must ensure we do not bite more than we can chew. A campus of Southern Delta University has already been established in Orerokpe, in the same federal constituency as Sapele, using the facilities from a new Technical College built by the state government.”
Aniagwu assured that Governor Oborevwori’s administration remains committed to delivering quality education that meets the needs of present and future generations, in line with the government’s MORE Agenda.
