Zeb-Obipi Outlines Vision For RSU, Takes Over as 12th Vice-Chancellor

The new Vice Chancellor of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworokwo, Port Harcourt, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi has hinted of his plans to deploy strategies that will improve the institution, and position it as the choicest place for work and study in Nigeria.

Zeb-Obipi stated this today when he formally took over from his predecessor, Professor Nlerum Okogbule at a brief handover ceremony at the Senate Chambers, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworokwo, Port Harcourt.

The handover ceremony which marked a crucial transition of leadership, was attended by members of the university community, stakeholders and other invited guests who were ecstatic, demonstrating their confidence in his ability to deliver.

Delivering his inaugural address as Vice Chancellor, Zeb-Obipi said his vision was embedded in a comprehensive strategy to reposition the university, focusing on academic excellence, research and innovation, student experience, faculty development, digital transformation, community engagement, sustainability, and institutional culture.

He emphasized the need to revamp academic programs, strengthen research capacity, leverage technology for administrative efficiency, and foster partnerships that would drive the university’s growth.

To set the institution on this path, he announced a series of immediate interventions, including the introduction of a smart administration system for efficiency, prompt transcript delivery to eliminate delays, expansion of internet access across all campuses, independent power generation to reduce reliance on external supply, and a ‘Sponsor’ monitoring system that will enable parents and guardians to track student progress.

He reiterated his commitment to improve the university’s ranking, enhancing infrastructural development, and strengthening alumni and labour relations.

The immediate-past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, while handing over, expressed confidence in his successor, noting that he has the capacity and track record to lead the institution forward.

“I have completed my assignment and we have somebody we are handing over to today, I’m happy that the person who has been chosen, I’ve known him, he is a person that will work harmoniously, with his antecedents, he shows capacity “.

The handover ceremony featured the signing of the official handover book, the presentation of memorabilia, and a large and cheering by a crowd of students and Alumni, staff, and well-wishers.

A random interview had attendees describing the Vice Chancellor as a “talk-and-do” man, expressing optimism that his leadership would bring the desired competitiveness and transformation to the university.