● Tonye Okurumo
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved an immediate intervention at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) to enhance and upgrade its infrastructure. The governor pledged his administration’s commitment to improving facilities at the institution during an inspection tour on Wednesday.
According to a press statement signed by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor, Fubara announced that construction would soon commence on key projects, including a new administrative block, male and female hostels, a health centre, and a sports complex.
Governor Fubara, who visited the institution in Rumuolumeni community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, was accompanied on the tour by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Okechukwu Onuchukwu, and the Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka.
Explaining the purpose of his visit, the governor stated that it was in response to a formal request from the university’s Governing Council, which had called for urgent intervention in critical infrastructure needs.
“This afternoon, I can say that, from what I have seen here, the improvement recorded is very regrettable,” Fubara remarked. “It is only those ones that have been achieved through TETFUND, and it is unfortunate that as a government, we have not done much to a school that is under our control.”
Expressing his resolve to address the situation, the governor assured that the university’s requests had been approved. “I can make bold to say this afternoon from what I have seen, the way the school has also managed itself, we will immediately grant the requests of the Governing Council,” he said.
Fubara further confirmed the specific projects to be undertaken, stating, “The requests include building of new hostels for both male and female; administrative block; a new health centre; and sports complex. I think you can consider those requests all granted here and approved.”
Commending the Vice Chancellor for his leadership, the governor encouraged the university’s management to continue striving for excellence in maintaining the highest standards of education and infrastructure.
He also addressed students, urging them to make the most of their time at the institution. “You have the opportunity to be here today. Make good use of this very rare opportunity. Don’t just pass through the school. If you are passing through the school alone, you will end up not getting anything. Allow the school to pass through you so that when you leave, you will leave with something impactful from the school.”
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the university receives the necessary support to improve both its infrastructure and the quality of education it offers. GMTNewsng
