Dennis Osadebay University Prepares To Confer Degrees On First Graduating Class
Maiden Convocation: A Historic Milestone
DENNIS Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, will hold its first-ever convocation ceremony on 7th March 2026, formally recognizing the achievements of its pioneer cohort. A total of 416 graduands will receive degrees across 28 programmes in seven faculties, reflecting the university’s multidisciplinary growth since its establishment in 2021.
At a press briefing, Vice Chancellor Prof. Benjamin Oghojafor provided a breakdown of academic performance: First Class – 25 students, Second Class Upper – 167, Second Class Lower – 185, Third Class – 39. He also highlighted Mike Ogisi Regina Chukwufunnanya, the top-performing student who graduated as a Chartered Accountant with a near-perfect GPA.
Student Population and Academic Expansion
Starting with 651 students in February 2021, DOU has experienced rapid expansion: 1,589 in 2022/2023, 2,994 in 2023/2024, 4,408 in 2024/2025, and 5,835 students in 2025/2026, totaling 15,472 students since inception. Prof. Oghojafor attributed this growth to “vision-driven leadership, hard work, and commitment to excellence.”
The university now offers 86 accredited programmes, with 35 awaiting accreditation results, up from the initial 46 programmes. Its curricula emphasize academic rigour, character formation, and global competitiveness, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Infrastructure Development
The campus has undergone a dramatic transformation, moving from limited, outdated facilities to a modern educational environment. Key developments include faculty blocks for Agriculture, Arts, Environmental and Behavioural Sciences, Management Sciences, and Science faculties, new student hostels accommodating up to 2,000 students, and a state-of-the-art digital library designed to support research and innovation.
Specialised courses in Allied Medical Sciences, Computing, Nursing, Optometry, and Cyber Sciences have been introduced to attract high-calibre students and meet industry demands. Partnerships with professional bodies ensure that students graduate with practical certifications and skills alongside their academic degrees.
Leadership, Governance, and Support
Prof. Oghojafor acknowledged the support of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, for establishing the university, and commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for sustaining its development under the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.
Officials present at the pre-convocation briefing included the Registrar, University Librarian, Bursar, and Chairman and members of the Governing Council, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the university’s growth.
Looking Forward
The maiden convocation is a milestone for DOU, highlighting the university’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, and infrastructural advancement. With robust governance, expanding programmes, and growing enrolment, Dennis Osadebay University is positioning itself as a premier institution in southern Nigeria, prepared to nurture the next generation of professionals, researchers, and leaders.
