Maritime Polytechnic Central to Delta’s Blue Economy Vision, Tonukari Reaffirms

Government Prioritises Maritime Education for Economic Growth

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 world-class institution capable of driving the state’s blue economy agenda and strengthening its maritime sector.

Tonukari made the pledge during an inspection visit to the institution, where he assessed ongoing infrastructure projects and interacted with the management and staff on strategies to advance academic excellence, practical training and institutional development.

He described the polytechnic as one of the state’s strategic investments, noting that its role in producing highly skilled maritime professionals aligns with the government’s broader plan to diversify Delta’s economy and maximise opportunities within its coastal environment.

Institution Positioned as Catalyst for Blue Economy Development

According to the commissioner, Delta State’s extensive coastline presents enormous economic opportunities that can only be fully harnessed through sustained investment in specialised education and technical manpower development.

He explained that the Maritime Polytechnic occupies a prominent place within the Oborevwori administration’s MORE Agenda because of its capacity to train professionals for the shipping, marine engineering, fisheries, logistics, offshore services and other maritime-related industries.

“The Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, remains one of the priority institutions of this administration. Government is committed to making a lasting impact because Delta, as one of Nigeria’s major coastal states, possesses immense maritime potential that must be translated into sustainable economic development,” Tonukari said.

He added that strengthening maritime education would not only enhance employment opportunities for young people but also reduce the state’s dependence on oil revenues by expanding alternative sources of economic growth.

Infrastructure Expansion Underway

Tonukari disclosed that government investments are already yielding results through ongoing infrastructure projects designed to improve teaching, research and students’ welfare.

He noted that projects funded through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), alongside additional state-funded interventions, are expanding the institution’s physical infrastructure and academic capacity.

Among the approved projects are a modern administrative complex, specialised workshops and additional student hostels intended to provide a more conducive learning environment and strengthen practical training.

The commissioner expressed optimism that the improvements would increase student enrolment, enhance the institution’s competitiveness and elevate its status as a centre of excellence for maritime education.

Staff Urged to Sustain Academic Excellence

While commending the workforce for their contributions, Tonukari urged lecturers and other employees to reciprocate government’s commitment through dedication, discipline and quality service delivery.

He stressed that maintaining high professional standards would be essential in sustaining the institution’s growth and preserving public confidence in its programmes.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Mrs. Felicia Rone-Orugboh, also praised members of staff for their commitment and reminded lecturers that their responsibilities extend beyond academic instruction to mentoring students and shaping future leaders.

Management Commits to Government’s Vision

Earlier, Rector of the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, Prof. James Okoro, expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration for its sustained investment in the institution.

He assured the visiting delegation that the management would continue to strengthen academic standards, expand practical maritime training and position the institution among Nigeria’s leading centres for maritime education.

The renewed commitment, stakeholders believe, reflects Delta State’s growing emphasis on education as a strategic driver of economic diversification and long-term development within the emerging blue economy.