Delta Maritime Polytechnic Key to Blue Economy Growth, Says Commissioner Tonukari
By Yahaya Idris, Asaba
The Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration to transforming the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, into a leading maritime institution capable of driving the state’s blue economy agenda.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the institution, Prof. Tonukari said the polytechnic occupies a strategic position in the state’s long-term development plans because of its potential to produce the skilled workforce required to harness Delta’s vast maritime resources.
The commissioner inspected ongoing infrastructure projects and met with the institution’s management and staff to review progress and discuss future development initiatives.
Maritime Polytechnic Central to Delta’s Blue Economy Vision
Prof. Tonukari described the institution as one of the priority tertiary institutions under Governor Oborevwori’s administration, noting that Delta State’s extensive coastline presents enormous opportunities for economic diversification through maritime activities.
According to him, strengthening maritime education will equip young people with technical skills needed to support shipping, marine engineering, logistics, fisheries and other sectors of the blue economy.
“The Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, is one of the priority institutions of this administration. Government is determined to make a lasting impact here because Delta, as a coastal state with one of the longest coastlines in Nigeria, has enormous maritime potential that must be harnessed for development,” Tonukari said.
He added that graduates of the institution would play a crucial role in providing the expertise required to stimulate maritime industries, expand employment opportunities and reduce the state’s dependence on oil and gas revenue.
Government Expands Infrastructure
The commissioner disclosed that the Delta State Government is investing heavily in infrastructure to improve the institution’s capacity for teaching, research and technical training.
He noted that ongoing projects, alongside interventions funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), are expected to modernise the learning environment and attract more students.
According to him, the state government has also approved the construction of:
An administrative complex
Modern workshops
Additional student hostels
These projects, he said, are designed to improve academic delivery, practical training and students’ welfare.
Staff Urged to Justify Government Investment
Prof. Tonukari called on academic and non-academic staff to reciprocate the government’s commitment through dedication, discipline and professionalism.
He urged employees to maintain regular attendance and continue delivering quality education that would sustain the institution’s reputation and growth.
The commissioner stressed that effective service delivery remains essential to achieving the administration’s vision of making the institution a centre of excellence in maritime education.
Permanent Secretary Commends Staff
Also speaking during the visit, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Mrs. Felicia Rone-Orugboh, praised members of staff for their commitment to the institution.
She encouraged lecturers to remain focused on their responsibilities, reminding them that their role extends beyond classroom teaching to mentoring students and shaping future leaders.
Mrs. Rone-Orugboh urged staff to continue serving as positive role models while supporting the government’s efforts to improve higher education in Delta State.
Rector Appreciates Government’s Support
Earlier, the Rector of Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, Prof. James Okoro, expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the sustained investment in the institution.
He assured the commissioner that the management and staff remain committed to academic excellence, quality research and practical maritime training.
According to the rector, the institution will continue aligning its programmes with the state’s vision of building one of Nigeria’s foremost maritime education centres capable of supporting national economic development.
Strengthening Maritime Education
The renewed investment in the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic underscores the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to expanding higher education, developing skilled manpower and positioning Delta State as a leading player in Nigeria’s maritime economy.
Stakeholders believe that sustained investment in maritime education will strengthen the state’s competitiveness, create employment opportunities and unlock the economic potential of its coastal resources.
