President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed His Eminence, King Alfred Papapreye Diette-Spiff, Seriya II, Amanyanabo of Twon Brass Kingdom of Bayelsa State, as Chancellor of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), located in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, on Saturday.
The event was part of the celebrations for the institution’s first convocation ceremony on campus.
Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, represented President Tinubu.
As part of the convocation ceremony, the university bestowed a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Honoris Causa) on ex-militant leader High Chief Oweizide Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and a Doctor of Letters on King Alfred Papapreye Diette-Spiff for their contributions to the university’s growth and development.
After being installed as Chancellor, King Alfred Papapreye Diette-Spiff stated that he will oversee NMU’s transition into a world-class institution.
President Tinubu stated in his address to the convocation that he was aware of the university’s vision, which is to be the maritime institution of first choice for all those seeking a career in the maritime industry and to contribute to the creation of employment and wealth in the highly competitive global maritime economy.
He expressed confidence that the institution would achieve great things in terms of increasing the country’s capability in marine technology and business in accordance with global best practices, putting Nigeria on the map of the world’s leading maritime economy.
“I am well aware of the difficulties and constraints that this university is currently facing.” Such difficulties and limits are common in the early stages of the existence of every institution. “However, I can assure you that this government will continue to do everything possible to meet your needs,” the president said.
