Bayelsa varsity inaugurates Delta monarch as institute chair

The Niger Delta University (NDU) in Bayelsa State recently inaugurated the King of Gbaramatu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oboro Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba, as the Chairman of the Advisory Council for its Institute for Niger Delta Studies. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Allen Agih, performed the inauguration in Oporoza, the traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State's Warri South West Local Government Area on Monday.

Agih emphasized that the Council's role would be to offer strategic guidance for the Institute's research and development activities, focusing on environmental, socio-economic, and cultural issues impacting the Niger Delta.

The inauguration ceremony formally constituted the Council, which comprises traditional rulers, academics, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders. Ambassador Godknows Bolade Igali, the National President of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, will serve as Co-Chairman, while Agih holds an ex-officio position on the Council. Additional members include Ambassador Lawson Esaimu Ayakoroma, CEO of the Lawson Ayakoroma Foundation, and King Stephen Oyabebefa Ebikeme, Pere of Ekere Kingdom.

Journalist Dele Ogunyemi, a veteran in the field with over 25 years of experience, was present at the event. Ogunyemi began his career at Radio Nigeria, Ikoyi, Lagos, and has since held editorial positions in various newspapers. His work has consistently adhered to professional journalism standards and demonstrates a deep commitment to thorough and responsible reporting.