Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers says his administration will continue to provide necessary financial support to strengthen the capacity of the state-owned university to rank one of the best in the country.

Mr Fubara said this at the 35th conference of the university in Port Harcourt on Saturday.

He said the support is necessary because education is the cornerstone for a firm, equitable and progressive society that the state desires.

“Bear in mind that funding is a problem, not just to the university system but also to governance, but as you all know, education is the cornerstone of a firm, equitable and progressive society.

“Therefore, we will continue to do our best to finance our university.

“Our commitment to make the university one of the best in this country is a target and a process we have just started today,” Mr Fubara said.

He expressed delight with the result-oriented approach adopted by the university management in achieving the record of success being celebrated, including securing full accreditation for all its programmes, despite the challenges.

“Let me promise this university community that the grant approved but not released will be released by Monday, December 18.

“The essence of our commitment to education development is reflected in our 2024 budget, which received the third highest allocation,” the governor said.

He assured that the available resources would be disbursed fairly to address the university’s most critical challenges, including support for the full and effective development of the new campuses.

Mr Fubara also promised the provision of stable power, the building of student hostels, and effective CCTV coverage to enhance campus safety and security.

In a welcome address, the vice chancellor said 6,326 graduates were conferred with first degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Masters and Doctors of Philosophy.

(NAN)