SDU Launches Prof Sam Oyovbaire Annual Lecture Series, Strengthens Commitment to Nat'l Devt ~ Truth Reporters

By Andy Emephia

Southern Delta University (SDU), under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, has inaugurated the Professor Sam Oyovbaire Annual Public Service Lecture Series, marking a significant milestone in the University's drive to promote intellectual excellence and contribute to national development through scholarly engagement.

The maiden edition of the lecture series, held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the University's Main Auditorium, Orerokpe Campus, drew an impressive audience of academics, researchers, students, public servants, political leaders, traditional rulers and professionals from across the country.

Instituted in honour of renowned scholar and statesman, Professor Sam Egite Oyovbaire, the annual lecture celebrates his outstanding contributions to academia and public service while providing a platform for addressing critical national and global issues through informed research and dialogue.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, described the initiative as a strategic platform through which Southern Delta University will stimulate scholarly debates, influence public policy and generate practical solutions to societal challenges. He noted that the lecture series reflects the University's commitment to academic excellence and nation-building.

The maiden lecture, titled "Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament," was delivered by the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, who examined Nigeria's federal system, highlighting governance challenges and advocating visionary leadership as the foundation for national progress.

The lecture was further enriched by a panel of eminent scholars comprising Professor Sam Aghalino, Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba; Professor Willy Ehwarieme of Delta State University, Abraka; and Professor Joyce Ogwezi, former Dean of Students' Affairs, Dennis Osadebay University. The session was moderated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Presly Obukoadata.

Representing the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerowho Tonukari, commended Southern Delta University for instituting the lecture series in honour of Professor Oyovbaire, describing him as a scholar whose intellectual contributions, integrity and public service have enriched Nigeria's democratic journey.

Professor Tonukari stressed that no system of government can thrive without capable, visionary and selfless leaders committed to the common good. He reaffirmed the Delta State Government's commitment to good governance through the M.O.R.E. Agenda, urging participants to translate the ideas generated during the lecture into practical policy solutions for national development. He also congratulated Professor Sam Oyovbaire on the well-deserved recognition.

The lecture was chaired by His Royal Majesty, Albert Akpomudje, Eyavwien-Alaka I, the Ohworode of Olomu and Chairman of the Body of Benchers, while the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom served as the Royal Father of the Day.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Founding Vice-Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Professor Jacob Snapps Oboreh; Chief (Mrs.) Stella Omu; traditional rulers; senior academics; government officials; and several prominent Nigerians.

The successful inauguration of the Professor Sam Oyovbaire Annual Public Service Lecture Series further reinforces Southern Delta University's vision of becoming a globally relevant institution where scholarship, innovation and impactful public discourse drive sustainable development and societal transformation.