Fubara exposes neglect at state university, orders urgent infrastructure overhaul

DDM News

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has ordered the immediate construction of key facilities at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

The projects include new male and female hostels, an administrative block, a health centre, and a sports complex.

Fubara expressed deep disappointment that the university had been relying heavily on the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) for infrastructure.

He described the situation as unacceptable for an institution owned by the state government.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the governor issued the directive on Wednesday during an unscheduled visit to the university.

His visit followed an invitation from the university’s Governing Council for an on-the-spot assessment of the institution’s needs.

Governor Fubara was warmly welcomed by the Governing Council Chairman, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, alongside other council members and school officials.

Also present were the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Okey Onuchukwu, enthusiastic students, and residents eager to witness the governor’s visit.

Speaking during the visit, Fubara stated that he wanted to personally assess the institution’s condition.

“This afternoon, I can say that the improvements here have come mainly through TETFUND,” Fubara declared.

“It is regrettable that, as a government, we have not done much for a school under our control,” he continued.

Following his assessment, Fubara approved the immediate execution of several major projects.

The approved projects include the construction of new male and female hostels.

Other projects include a modern administrative block, a health centre, and a fully equipped sports complex.

Fubara assured the university authorities that his administration would prioritize these projects.

He emphasized the importance of creating a conducive learning environment for students.

Governor Fubara commended the university leadership for sustaining academic activities despite severe infrastructural limitations.

He particularly praised Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Okey Onuchukwu, for his dedication to the institution’s growth.

“I urge the university to continue its good work,” Fubara stated.

“I especially commend the Acting Vice-Chancellor for his commitment and leadership,” he added.

Fubara also addressed students, urging them to take full advantage of the opportunities available at the university.

“Do not just pass through this school—let the school pass through you as well,” Fubara advised.

“Ensure you gain something valuable before you leave,” he emphasized.

The governor reassured students and staff that his administration remained committed to improving the university’s infrastructure.

He stated that his government would no longer allow the neglect of state-owned institutions.

The announcement was met with widespread approval from students, lecturers, and university staff.

Many students expressed gratitude for the governor’s intervention, noting that accommodation shortages had been a long-standing issue.

Some students revealed that the lack of hostels had forced them into expensive off-campus housing.

Others mentioned that the absence of a well-equipped health centre had made access to medical care difficult.

A senior lecturer, speaking anonymously, described the intervention as long overdue.

He explained that IAUE had depended almost entirely on external funding for infrastructure development.

“How can a state university rely almost solely on TETFUND?” the lecturer questioned.

“This is a wake-up call for the government to take responsibility,” he added.

Members of the Governing Council also praised Fubara for taking decisive action.

Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka noted that the governor’s intervention would address major challenges faced by the university.

“This university has been abandoned for too long,” Amiesimaka remarked.

Governor Fubara’s intervention aligns with his broader vision for improving education in Rivers State.

Since assuming office, he has emphasized the need for better infrastructure in public institutions.

He has also stressed the importance of ensuring students receive quality education in a conducive environment.

Despite the excitement, some skeptics remain doubtful about the timely execution of the projects.

A student leader expressed concerns over whether the government would follow through on its promises.

“We appreciate the governor’s words, but we want action, not just talk,” the student stated.

“Too many promises have been made in the past without results,” he added.

Some critics argue that the state government should have addressed these issues much earlier.

They questioned why Fubara’s administration had not prioritized education infrastructure from the beginning.

“It is embarrassing that a state university is still struggling with basic facilities,” a political analyst commented.

“The government needs to do more than just issue directives,” he added

However, supporters of Fubara believe his intervention marks a turning point for the university.

They argue that his visit and immediate action demonstrate his commitment to change.

The university community remains hopeful that the promised projects will be completed as planned.

Many students and staff are optimistic about a new era of development at IAUE.

With Fubara’s directive now in place, all eyes are on the state government to deliver.

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