UNIPORT confers honorary doctorate on FCT Minister Wike

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has announced the award of an honorary Doctor of Science degree to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, in recognition of what it described as his visionary leadership and enduring service to both public administration and the university community.

The Vice Chancellor of UNIPORT, Professor Owunari Georgewill, made the disclosure on Wednesday during a formal presentation of the award letter at Mr Wike’s residence in Abuja.

Professor Georgewill explained that the decision was unanimously approved by the university’s Senate in advance of its 50th anniversary celebration, which is scheduled to take place on 26 July 2025.

He stated that the recognition is not only a reflection of Mr Wike’s impact on national development but also his legacy as a committed alumnus whose contributions to the university are tangible and enduring.

“You are more than a public official. You are a proud son of this university, and your role in shaping our growth is evident,” the Vice Chancellor said.

Under the university’s statutes, the Senate is empowered to bestow honorary degrees on individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the progress of the nation. Professor Georgewill noted that Mr Wike’s influence in both education and infrastructure had positioned him as a deserving honouree.

The university’s Registrar, Mrs Gloria China, had earlier issued an official notification in a letter dated 10 June. The Senate’s decision was reportedly reached during an extraordinary session held on 3 June, during which Mr Wike’s record in governance, particularly in Rivers State and at the national level, was cited.

Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, who led the delegation, described Mr Wike as a steadfast ambassador of UNIPORT. He recalled how, in various leadership roles, the minister had consistently defended and supported the university.

He noted that during his tenure as Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government, Mr Wike championed the university’s interests. As Minister of Education, he facilitated the establishment of the Faculty of Law, and as Governor of Rivers State, he funded the construction of a convocation arena, which the university has described as one of the best in West Africa.

Senator Ohuabunwa also disclosed that Mr Wike had recently donated a multimedia centre to the university, which will be officially commissioned on 25 July as part of the golden jubilee celebrations.

In his response, Mr Wike expressed appreciation for the honour and reiterated his longstanding commitment to the university. He described UNIPORT as the bedrock of his academic and political development, having earned degrees in both Political Science and Law from the institution.

He recounted how his decision to establish the Faculty of Law was prompted by his surprise at the university’s lack of such a faculty, and explained that his reforms, including separating the Faculty of Social Sciences from the broader Faculty of Humanities, were aimed at elevating academic standards.

“I will always support my university. If I find myself in a position to do more, I will not hesitate. I receive this honour with humility, on behalf of my family, and I look forward to joining in the 50th anniversary celebrations,” Mr Wike said.

The honorary degree will be formally conferred at UNIPORT’s 23rd Convocation Ceremony on Saturday, 26 July 2025.