The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has announced plans to confer an honourary Doctor of Science (DSc Honoris Causa) degree on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in recognition of his exceptional leadership and contributions to governance in Rivers State and Nigeria.
The vice-chancellor of UNIPORT, Prof. Owunari Abraham Georgewill, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the minister in Abuja yesterday.
He stated that the award would be presented on July 26, 2025, as part of the university’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, which are scheduled for July 21–27, 2025.
Prof. Georgewill praised Wike as a distinguished alumnus whose impact extends beyond national service to the development of UNIPORT.
“The Senate of the University has sat and decided to award this honorary degree to Your Excellency for your immense contributions. Your footprints are evident at UNIPORT, and we are proud to be associated with you,” he said.
The pro-chancellor and chairman of UNIPORT’s Governing Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, presented the award letter, highlighting Wike’s enduring legacy, from his tenure as a local government chairman to his roles as Minister of Education and Rivers State Governor.
“You built one of the best convocation arenas in West Africa, and your recent donation of a multimedia facility further demonstrates your commitment. We will commission the arena on July 25, as part of our golden jubilee celebrations,” he said.
In his response, Wike expressed gratitude to the Senate of the University, recalling his academic roots at UNIPORT, where he studied Political Science before pursuing Law.
“Let me state proudly that I am a proud alumnus of the University of Port Harcourt.
This is the institution where I cut my teeth. I owe my university quite a lot because people always call me a lawyer, not knowing Political Science came first.
“When I was Minister of Education, I ensured UNIPORT had a Faculty of Law. As governor, I completed key projects, including the convocation arena. If given more opportunities, I will continue to support my alma mater,” he said.
Wike also announced plans to dedicate the Faculty of Law in his wife’s name and the Department of Political Science in his own, urging friends and associates to support the university.
“I have told my friends we must support UNIPORT’s golden jubilee. The Faculty of Law dedication will be in my wife’s name, while Political Science will bear mine, to inspire future generations.
“I am happy and I accept on behalf of my family, my wife and my friends, I accept this offer of Doctor of Science, Political Science (Honoris Causa),” he said.
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