OGOLOMA KINGDOM HONOURS RSU VICE-CHANCELLOR WITH GRAND RECEPTION

OGOLOMA KINGDOM HONOURS RSU VICE-CHANCELLOR WITH GRAND RECEPTION

By: RSU Media Crew 

The Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University (RSU), Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has been honoured with a grand civic reception by the Amanyanabo of Ancient Ogoloma Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, King Emmanuel T. I. Obudibo, the Ogoloma Divisional Council of Chiefs and the people of Ogoloma Kingdom in recognition of his appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the University. 

The reception was held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Government Girls Secondary School field, Okumgba, Ogoloma, in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Ogoloma Divisional Council of Chiefs, Chief Martins J. Ateli Kunumgbe, described the Vice-Chancellor's appointment as a source of pride to the Ancient Ogoloma Kingdom and a reward for years of dedication, intellectual excellence, integrity and commitment to educational advancement. He noted that Professor Zeb-Obipi's achievements continue to inspire younger generations and serve as a testament to the values of hard work, discipline, and perseverance.

Chief Kunumgbe also acknowledged the contributions of Prof. Zeb-Obipi in the development of the community. “Beyond your remarkable academic accomplishments, we are particularly proud of your unwavering commitment to our traditional institution and the development of our community. As a respected member of the Antient Ogoloma Divisional Council of Chiefs, you have continued to uphold our cherished cultural heritage while serving as a bridge between tradition and modern development”, he said.

Speaking at the reception, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, The Hon. Okey Wali, SAN, commended the Vice-Chancellor for his exemplary leadership and commitment to the growth and development of Rivers State University. He expressed confidence in Professor Zeb-Obipi's ability to effectively drive the vision of the Governing Council and sustain the University's pursuit of academic excellence, innovation and institutional development.

Also speaking, the Member representing Okrika State Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and described him as a worthy role model whose achievements demonstrate that education, determination and resilience remain pathways to success and leadership.

In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Ogoloma Academia, Professor Telema Adolphus, stated that the appointment of Professor Zeb-Obipi as Vice-Chancellor represents a collective achievement for the Ancient Ogoloma Kingdom. He noted that the Vice-Chancellor's distinguished career in teaching, research, administration and mentorship has brought honour to the community and inspired many young people to pursue excellence.

Responding, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi expressed gratitude to God and to the Governor of Rivers State and Visitor to the University, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for appointing him as the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University. Prof. Zeb-Obipi also thanked the University's Governing Council, Management, staff, students, family members, friends and the people of Ancient Ogoloma Kingdom for their support and encouragement throughout his academic and professional journey. He described the reception as a reflection of the strong communal spirit and unity that continue to define the Ogoloma people.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the importance of community development and recalled previous interventions that provided accommodation and support facilities for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the community.

As part of his commitment to community development, Professor Zeb-Obipi donated a generator set and a lawn mower to the NYSC members serving in the area to help address electricity challenges and support the maintenance of their lodge environment.

The event featured colourful cultural displays, goodwill messages, presentations of gifts by various groups and organizations and special tributes celebrating the Vice-Chancellor's outstanding contributions to education, leadership, community development and public service.