ABRAKA: The Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), Samuel Asagba, has announced that the institution was ranked the best state university in Nigeria for 2025.
He disclosed this during a press conference ahead of the university’s 18th convocation ceremony, noting that the institution also emerged as the top university in the South-East and South-South regions, while placing 12th overall nationally.
Professor Asagba said the university is strengthening international partnerships as part of efforts to enhance academic quality and global recognition.
According to him, DELSU is expanding collaborations with institutions in China, Canada, the United States, and South Africa.
These partnerships include staff training opportunities and virtual international teaching engagements.
They are ready to assist us in several areas… this collaboration will enhance our visibility and improve our ranking,” he said.
Addressing concerns about the condition of student hostels, the Vice Chancellor assured that rehabilitation work is ongoing and would be evident when students resume for the next academic session.
He also highlighted major interventions by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), including ₦4 billion allocated for the Faculty of Engineering and ₦2.5 billion for medical laboratory upgrades.
Plans are also underway to construct 1,000-capacity hostels to tackle accommodation shortages on campus.
Asagba revealed that the university has expanded its work-study programme, with about 50 indigent students now earning ₦50,000 to support their education. He added that school fees have remained unchanged despite economic challenges faced by many families.
He also expressed concern over the low participation of students in the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) in Southern Nigeria, urging students to take advantage of the initiative.
The Vice Chancellor commended the Delta State Government, led by Sheriff Oborevwori, for sustained support to the institution.
He cited the revival of the long-abandoned Senate building project, ongoing since 2007, as well as prompt salary payments and implementation of medical lecturers’ allowances.
DELSU has also upgraded its digital infrastructure, including Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres now equipped with over 1,000 modern computers. According to Asagba, this has improved operational efficiency and reduced malpractice, including transcript-related fraud.
The university is planning to launch a fundraising campaign for a modern sports complex aimed at boosting talent development and improving student wellness.
Despite limited facilities, Asagba noted that DELSU finished fourth at the last Nigerian University Games, highlighting the institution’s potential in sports.
While celebrating the achievements, the Vice Chancellor acknowledged key challenges facing the university, including inadequate funding, security concerns, unstable power supply, accreditation demands, staffing shortages, and infrastructure maintenance.
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to sustaining progress while addressing these issues to maintain its leading position among state universities in Nigeria.
