The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the growth and development of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State.
The minister gave the assurance during the institution’s maiden matriculation ceremony held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at its permanent site in Kwale.
Represented by Mrs. Folashade Boriowo, the minister congratulated the pioneer students on their successful admission and urged them to remain dedicated to the ideals of the university.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Salisu Banye, commended the courage of the pioneer students and encouraged them to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to ease their academic pursuits.
He noted that beneficiaries of the scheme stand a better chance of securing Federal Government jobs after graduation, which would enable them to repay the loans.
Dr. Banye also assured stakeholders that the university would remain focused on its mission and appealed to the Delta State Government to fulfil its promise of providing buses for the institution.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abel Onunu, lauded President Bola Tinubu for his consistent funding of the university since its establishment.
He emphasized the institution’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates grounded in discipline, excellence, and integrity.
Prof. Onunu also expressed appreciation to former Deputy Senate President, Barr. Augustine Ovie Omo-Agege, for his pivotal role in establishing the university, noting that the institution has brought pride and relief to the Ndokwa people, who contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.
Highlighting the university’s achievements since inception, the Vice-Chancellor listed the successful completion of administrative processes, staff recruitment, resource verification, admission of pioneer students, and commencement of academic activities.
He added that the institution has fostered strong relationships with its host community, attracting support from stakeholders and philanthropists, while ongoing infrastructural development at the permanent site continues to progress steadily.
The matriculation ceremony featured a lecture delivered by Dr. Austin Avuru, Chairman of AA Holdings and Co-founder and pioneer CEO of Platform Petroleum Limited and Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc.
The event was coordinated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Nekwu Okolugbo, and the Registrar, Mr. Lucky Ohwojeroh Mustapha.
