The Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, has conferred awards of excellence on key figures for their contributions to the institution’s growth and development. Among the honorees were Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; former Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Senator James Manager; and renowned peace advocate, environmentalist, and development activist, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade.
Other recipients of the prestigious awards included the Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Julius Takeme, and His Royal Highness, Bosu Dio (JP), Ayamabulou 1, the Ibenanawei of Iduwini Kingdom, who also serves as the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Oil and Mineral Producing Communities of Niger Delta (TROMPCON), Delta State Chapter.
The awards were presented during the institution’s maiden convocation ceremony held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at its premises in Burutu.
Governor Oborevwori was recognized for his pivotal role in upgrading the institution to a polytechnic, positioning it as Nigeria’s first maritime polytechnic and the second in West Africa after South Africa. His administration’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and fostering technical advancements in maritime studies was lauded by the institution’s management.
Senator James Manager, who represented Delta South in the Senate from 2003 to 2023 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), was acknowledged for his legislative efforts in sponsoring numerous bills and supporting educational initiatives across the state.
Chief Sheriff Mulade, National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) and Chairman of the Delta State Mini-Football Association, was honoured for his steadfast advocacy in establishing higher institutions in Ijaw communities. As the Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, he was instrumental in lobbying for the transformation of the Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu, into a full-fledged university. His efforts also extended to the establishment of the Delta State University of Science & Technology, Oleh, and the Delta State University of Education, Agbor. While the push for a university status was still ongoing, the eventual upgrade of the institution to a polytechnic was attributed in part to his relentless advocacy.
The institution’s management highlighted Comrade Mulade’s unwavering commitment, noting that his contributions could not go unnoticed. According to the Rector, Professor James Okoro, the awards were a demonstration to the institution’s appreciation for those who played instrumental roles in its advancement. He further expressed gratitude to the Delta State government and other stakeholders for their support in ensuring the polytechnic’s successful establishment.
It is noteworthy that during his tenure as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori played a significant role in facilitating the institution’s transition. The House, under his leadership, approved the legislative process that led to the repeal of the Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu, Law 2006, and the enactment of the Delta State Polytechnic, Burutu Law, 2023.
The convocation ceremony served as an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals committed to educational and infrastructural development in Delta State.
