By Paul Olayemi

It was a moment of pride and legacy as the Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, on Saturday, May 31st, 2025, crowned its week-long convocation activities with the commissioning of the new administrative building christened Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori White House. The imposing structure, a 40-seat central admin block and conference center, stands as a bold testament to the progressive vision of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the remarkable stewardship of the institution’s Rector, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri.

The building was commissioned by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, who represented the Governor. In his remarks, he described the project as “a landmark feat made possible through prudent fiscal management and the trust the Governor places in purposeful leadership.” The structure was not only named after the governor—it was also dedicated to the governor, in appreciation for what he called “unprecedented support and administrative freedom.”

“This building,” said Prof. Ufuophu-Biri, “is not just bricks and mortar. It is the embodiment of a governor’s commitment to education. It is my honour, on behalf of the Polytechnic, to dedicate it to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori—a man whose MORE Agenda has translated to More classrooms, More facilities, and More future.”

The ceremony, which drew in traditional rulers, lawmakers, academics, and alumni, was the grand finale of the Polytechnic’s second combined convocation since inception. From the graduating classes of 2016 to 2024, thousands of students bid farewell to their alma mater, now rebranded by visible, functional growth.

Chief (Hon.) Oghene-Aga Andrew Orugbo, Chairman of the Governing Council, didn’t mince words. “Ten years ago, we had our first convocation. Today, we are celebrating more than graduates—we are celebrating transformation,” he said. He acknowledged funding constraints and called for swift action on the Polytechnic’s perimeter fencing project, already backed by a N200 million government allocation. “We urge Governor Oborevwori to ensure the funds do not lapse,” he stressed.

Alongside the White House block, the Governor’s representative also commissioned other key projects: the Chief James Onanefe Ibori Auditorium, a water production factory, and a groundbreaking office complex for the School of Applied Sciences. Each facility tells a story of progress propelled by autonomy and the efficient use of internally generated revenue (IGR).

“This administration,” said Prof. Tonukari, “recognizes excellence. What you have achieved with your IGR is what some institutions struggle to do with full funding. Governor Oborevwori is proud—and rightly so.” He added that the Polytechnic’s innovations, including a fuel-less generator developed by its engineering team, reflect the governor’s vision to position Delta as a tech-forward, knowledge-driven state.

Backed by accreditation of 30 programmes and the introduction of cutting-edge courses like HND in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, Delta Polytechnic is reshaping the polytechnic narrative in Nigeria. “The polytechnic is no longer just a second choice. We are a first-rate institution creating solutions for Africa,” the Rector declared, prompting a standing ovation.

Royalty and power players were not in short supply. HRM Noble Oyibo Eshemitan Orefe III, HRM King Monday Whiskey, and HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi graced the event, each recognized with the Distinguished Fellow of Technology award. Politicians Chief John Nani and Chief John Oguma, along with several vice-chancellors and federal lawmakers, were also in attendance.

In a show of humility and vision, Prof. Ufuophu-Biri acknowledged the institution’s progress as “the product of team spirit,” praising Deputy Rector Dr. Ogbogu, Registrar Mr. Efedi, Bursar Omokaro, and Librarian Prof. Akporhonor, among others. “This is not a solo win—it is a collective success,” he said.

One of the emotional high points came when graduating student Okene Efemena, who finished with a 3.86 CGPA in Science Laboratory Technology, took the stage for a special recognition. “I dedicate my success to my lecturers and to a system that is finally working,” he said, echoing the day’s tone of achievement born of reform.

With the ‘White House’ now standing tall, Prof. Ufuophu-Biri sent a clear message to other institutions: “You don’t wait for everything to come from above. If given space and support, polytechnics can thrive. This is our evidence.”

And as the applause echoed across the halls of Otefe-Oghara, the name Sheriff Oborevwori wasn’t just on a building—it was etched into the institution’s future.