TWO WEEKS RETROSPECT AND CELEBRATION OF AN ERA OF IMPACT AND LEGACY

Upon assumption of office in 2021, we embraced effective communication as a vital framework for leadership. This Week In Retrospect (TWIR) became our weekly chronicle, capturing milestones and keeping the University community informed.

Today, as I prepare to step aside after five years of service, TWIR reaches its final edition under my leadership. On July 13, 2026, I will hand over the baton to the 10th Vice-Chancellor.

With this final edition, I bow out with gratitude, fulfillment, and pride in what we have accomplished together.

Below are two weeks activities that took place in the University.

1. We participated in the U&C Board Meeting and commended the Bank’s Management Team for its prudent stewardship, noting the sound leadership that has sustained the Bank’s viability and growth.
2. We participated in the 30th Public Lecture Series of the Faculty of Management Sciences, reaffirming our support for academic excellence and intellectual engagement. The lecture, delivered by Dr. Asian Umobong, provided valuable insights into the 2025 Tax Reform Acts, while reflecting the Faculty’s sustained tradition of promoting scholarship and public discourse.
3. As our Centre of Excellence facilities continue to attract institutions and professional bodies as a preferred venue for academic and professional engagements, we welcomed the Governing Council, Management, and Faculty members of Rivers State University to the CBN Centre for Excellence for their 2026 Faculty Away Day. We commended the University’s leadership for the initiative and expressed our best wishes for fruitful deliberations and a successful programme.
4. The Old Convocation Arena came alive as students turned out in their numbers for the thrilling Cook-a-thon competition Organized by the student body, the event drew strong support from corporate sponsors, adding to the excitement. The atmosphere was charged with energy, laughter, and friendly rivalry — a true celebration of student creativity and campus spirit.
5. We proudly presented awards of appreciation to ten Hall Wardens, honoring their meritorious service and unwavering dedication throughout the tenure of this administration. Their commitment to student welfare and campus harmony has been exemplary, and this recognition underscores the vital role they play in fostering a supportive environment.
6. In our bid to strengthen staff training and development, we formally declared open a three-day customized in-house training program for the Bursary and Internal Audit Departments. This initiative reflects our commitment to continuous capacity building, equipping staff with the skills and knowledge required to enhance efficiency and uphold best practices within the administration.
7. The University community witnessed a landmark moment as Prof. Kelechi Emmanuel Okonta delivered the 214th inaugural lecture, “The Beat, Bleed, and Breath (3-Bs).” Through vivid accounts from his career as a cardiothoracic surgeon, he brought to life the realities of human survival. We celebrated his remarkable contributions, which resonate at the very heart of existence — where life and death converge.
8. Our inaugural lecturer and 10th Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chike Princewill Chike, delivered the University’s 215th inaugural lecture titled “The Heart, Beyond a Pump: Electrophysiology Perspective.” His presentation was a masterclass, offering deep insights into the complexities of cardiac electrophysiology and advancing knowledge at the intersection of science and human life.
9. “Every mother saved is a generation preserved” reverberated across the packed hall of the CBN Centre of Excellence as Prof. Rosemary Nkemdiri Ogu delivered the 216th inaugural lecture of the University of Port Harcourt. Her theme, “Sweet Mother: From Perils to Power,” was both intriguing and captivating, drawing richly from research outcomes and her practical experience as a distinguished Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
10. As part of activities marking its 10th anniversary, the Student Representative Council (10th Senate) presented us with a token of credence in recognition of our leadership qualities. This gesture reflects their appreciation of our commitment to student representation and institutional growth.
11. We joined members of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), the Nigeria Medical Association, as well as friends and family of the late Prof. Nwadiuto A. Akani, in a service of songs organized by the management of UPTH. It was a moment to reflect and celebrate the life and times of this remarkable academic and medical amazon, as speaker after speaker paid glowing tributes to her person and legacy. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers remain with her family during this period of loss.
12. We honoured the invitation of the Nigerian Army, serving as Special Guest of Honour at the Army Day Celebration. The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the invaluable role of the Army in safeguarding peace and unity, while also celebrating their resilience and commitment to duty.
13. The Central Appointment and Promotion Committee (A&PC) met on July 8, 2026, to consider promotion submissions from Academic, SPATs and Junior Staff Committees and make recommendations to Council.
14. The Governing Council, under the leadership of Distinguished Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, is presently in the University to deliberate on key issues in the interest of the institution. We commend the Council’s pivotal role in promoting fairness, merit, and transparency in advancing staff careers, while reinforcing the University’s commitment to excellence.

It has truly been a week of deep reflection, recounting the innumerable blessings of God as I steered the ship of the University of Port Harcourt. The week became even more emotional as members of staff across all sections of the University organized themselves to host a series of events marking my exit from office.

On Monday, despite the torrents, colleagues walked through the Delta Campus to the Senate Building, creating a memorable moment that allowed us to shake off our rusty dancing legs.

On Tuesday, attention turned to the CRAB, which staged a play in honour of our remarkable journey and contributions to the University.

By Wednesday, the Committee hosted a legacy lecture that attracted two globally acclaimed industrialists and philanthropists — Dr. (Mrs.) Sienye Lulu Briggs and Dr. Richard Nyong. Both delivered compelling and thought-provoking lectures on leadership, giving back, and the role of stakeholders and alumni in the development of University infrastructure.

Activities continued on Thursday with a tour of facilities showcasing all legacy projects between 2021 and 2026. Upon return from the tour, members were treated to vibrant cultural displays by one of Port Harcourt’s finest cultural troupes.

Join us tomorrow, Saturday, July 11, 2026, for a football tournament at the Sports Complex by 7:00 a.m., followed by an Evening of Music at the Department of Music Recital Hall by 4:00 p.m.

The Grand Finale comes up on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Our Savior’s Chapel with a Thanksgiving Service starting at 9:00 a.m.

APPRECIATION

As I conclude my tenure as the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, I offer my deepest gratitude to Almighty God, whose unfailing grace, wisdom, strength, and faithfulness sustained me throughout this remarkable journey of service.

I sincerely appreciate the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s higher education system. I also express profound appreciation to His Excellency, Chief (Barr.) Dr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CFR, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, whose exceptional support and enduring commitment have significantly contributed to the growth and transformation of the University of Port Harcourt.

I remain immensely grateful to the Rivers State Government for the support extended to the University. My heartfelt thanks go to the Pro-Chancellor, Senator Mao A. Ohuabunwa, members of the Governing Council, the Senate, the Management Team, staff, students, alumni, regulatory and professional bodies, government agencies, development partners, benefactors, friends of the University, and the entire University community for their confidence, cooperation, and unwavering support throughout my administration.

The progress recorded during this administration is a testament to what can be achieved when people are united by a common vision and purpose. Every milestone attained, every challenge overcome, and every legacy established reflects the collective efforts, commitment, and resilience of the many individuals who worked tirelessly to advance the mission of our great University.

It has been an uncommon privilege to serve this prestigious institution. I remain profoundly thankful to everyone who contributed to the success of this administration and to the enduring progress of the University of Port Harcourt.

May Almighty God continue to bless and prosper our University.

We appreciate the roles you all played at your designated units during the weeks under review.

Do have a great weekend.

Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill, FRSB, FIIA, FWASOT, FCSI,
FFs, FWASOP, FECRMI, FIARSA, FIHSC , DFCIHTMA
Vice-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt