Dear Members of the University of Port Harcourt Community, It is with profound gratitude that we give thanks to the Lord God Almighty, the Author of time and seasons, whose abundant mercies and sustaining grace has ushered us into the year 2026. As the Psalmist affirms, “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.”

As we begin a new year, we respectfully extend our Happy New Year shout out to our highly revered University Visitor, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose leadership and commitment to education continue to strengthen Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

We also sincerely commend the Chairman and members of Council, for their strategic oversight. We thank the Senate, Management, members of staff, students, alumni, strategic partners, host communities and stakeholders for the unwavering support. We made so much impact in the previous year because of your steadfast commitment.

Here, before us is a new year with fresh pages, waiting for our collective inputs once again. Biblically, the number 26 resonates with divine order and peace. Therefore, this New Year calls us to renewed responsibility; It beckons us to dream boldly, work collaboratively, and serve selflessly. The possibilities before us – academic distinction, research innovation, global relevance, and institutional growth, can only be realized if every hand is on deck and every heart is aligned with our shared mission.

As Helen Keller wisely reminds us, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.” May optimism, discipline, and excellence define our collective journey in the year ahead.

We encourage everyone, – staff, students, and partners, to rise to a more prosperous, peaceful, and purposeful year. Together, we shall build a University that not only responds to the demands of our time, but also shapes the future with integrity and distinction.

We did it before, Let’s do it again!

Happy New Year, and may 2026 advance us into greater heights and deeper impact.

A new begining

Warm regards,

Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill, KSC, FRSB, FWASOT, FECRMI, FFS, FIIA, FWASOP, FIARSA, FIHSC, FFA, DFCIHTMA, Vice-Chancellor