By Our Reporter
The Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, on Monday, May 4, 2026, recorded a historic milestone with the seamless transition of leadership from its founding Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jacob Snapps Oboreh, to his successor, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, marking the end of a transformative era defined by exceptional growth and development.
Prof. Oboreh exits office leaving behind a remarkable financial and infrastructural legacy, having grown the institution from a modest ₦100 million take-off grant into a ₦161 billion university in assets and capital base , an achievement widely described as unprecedented.
The event which began with a guided tour of the university’s facilities, by the outgoing Vice Chancellor saw his successor around major infrastructural landmarks, including the Vice Chancellor’s lodge, Principal Officers’ quarters, Administrative complexes, and fully furnished student hostels.
The formal handover ceremony, held at the Vice Chancellor’s Chambers, commenced with prayer offered by Ven. Nelson Emebenyo.
Delivering his address at the event, Prof. Oboreh expressed deep appreciation to former Governor of Delta State, Senator Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, for appointing him as pioneer Vice Chancellor, and to the current Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, for sustained support and infrastructural advancement, including the approval of the ultra-modern Orereokpe campus.
Reflecting on his tenure, Prof. Oboreh highlighted key achievements, including the university remaining debt-free, prompt and consistent payment of staff salaries, and the expanded academic offerings from 45 to 89 programmes, with 59 fully accredited and others scheduled for accreditation in October 2026.
He emphasized that most infrastructural developments were driven by internally generated revenue.
Speaking further, the outgoing VC, before the formal handing over of the the institution’s operational documents, also advised the incoming Vice Chancellor to prioritize expansion in student accommodation, staff housing, and academic facilities such as laboratories and workshops.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada commended Prof. Oboreh’s visionary leadership and solid foundation, while he expressed immense gratitude to God and the Delta State Government for enabling his appointment and pledged to build a modern, globally competitive university.
He also acknowledged key stakeholders, including the outgoing Registrar, Mrs. Stella Muoboghare, Prof. Justina Oboreh, and members of the university community.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Prof. Douglason Omotor praised Prof. Oboreh for his outstanding service and called for his continued support for the new administration.
Climax of the ceremony was a thanksgiving mass at the Annunciation Catholic Church within the university, symbolizing the rededication of the institution to God as a new chapter begins under the leadership of Prof. Sunny Awhefeada.
