Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba has officially assumed duties as the 5th substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, taking over from Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh. Until his appointment, Prof. Agbalagba was the Dean of the College of Science.

The formal handover ceremony, held at the University’s new auditorium, was marked by a vibrant gathering of stakeholders, management staff, and dignitaries. In his acceptance speech, Prof. Agbalagba pledged to consolidate and build upon the solid legacies laid by his predecessor.

He emphasized his commitment to staff and student welfare, promising to explore the immense potential of the University’s workforce. He also vowed to maintain and enhance the spirit of collaboration cultivated by the outgoing administration, which he described as a “winning team.”

Prof. Agbalagba, an internationally recognized scholar in Environmental Radiation Physics, stated that he would leverage his research experience and global networks to raise the academic profile of FUPRE. He promised to develop a comprehensive roadmap aimed at expanding academic programs, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation.

“Standing on the shoulders of a performer like Engr. Prof. Akpofure is an assurance of better things to come,” he said, promising a quantum leap in academic progress rather than a mere step forward.

In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to God Almighty, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honorable Minister of Education, the University Governing Council led by Alhaji Gachi Issa, and the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for their support and confidence in his leadership.

He also extended heartfelt appreciation to royal fathers including HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso (Abe I, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom), HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe and Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council), and the Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, as well as host communities for their unwavering support.

Prof. Agbalagba’s distinguished academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Environmental/Radiation Physics from the University of Port Harcourt, a Master’s in Environmental Physics, a B.Sc. in Physics, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. He is a certified Nuclear Security Professional and a registered Environmental Specialist. His scholarly works have earned him national and international acclaim as one of Nigeria’s most cited experts in his field.

Earlier in the program, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Doris Ogeleka, acknowledged God’s grace in enabling Prof. Akpofure to complete a successful five-year tenure, especially given the COVID-19 restrictions that initially hampered his inauguration. She praised the milestones achieved during his tenure and prayed for greater success for the new VC.

In his emotional valedictory address, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh reflected on his five-year journey as Vice Chancellor, attributing his success to divine grace and the unwavering support of the University’s management team, academic and non-academic staff. He described his tenure as filled with cherished memories and thanked his deputy vice chancellors, registrar, and bursar for their teamwork and commitment.