Oborevwori Set To Approve Better Pay For Delta Lecturers As SDU Records Major Growth
Salary Review Signals Renewed Focus on Higher Education
THE Delta State Government has indicated that academic staff in its tertiary institutions may soon begin enjoying improved remuneration as the state finalises work on a new salary structure awaiting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s approval.
The disclosure came during a working visit by Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, to Southern Delta University, Ozoro, where government also outlined fresh investments aimed at strengthening teaching, research and student welfare across state-owned universities.
Lecturers’ Welfare Tops Government Agenda
Tonukari described lecturers as central to the success of any university system and said the administration remains committed to ensuring that their welfare receives adequate attention.
He explained that the ongoing salary review has progressed significantly and appealed to university unions to remain patient while government completes the process.
Responding to issues raised by SSANU, the commissioner assured members that their submissions had been acknowledged and would receive consideration after the implementation of the academic staff salary review.
Southern Delta University Earns Government Commendation
During an inspection of facilities, Tonukari praised Southern Delta University for its visible transformation, noting improvements in infrastructure, student enrolment and academic development.
He particularly commended Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sunny Awhefeada for providing visionary leadership and encouraged members of the university community to sustain the institution’s culture of excellence.
According to the commissioner, the administration remains determined to support universities that demonstrate measurable progress in academic and institutional development.
Hostels, Furniture and Law Faculty Project Receive Boost
The commissioner disclosed that Governor Oborevwori had approved the construction of two modern 500-bed hostels—one each for male and female students—in every state-owned university.
He said the initiative would significantly improve students’ welfare, accommodation and security.
Tonukari further assured the university that government would fast-track procurement for additional furniture to enable the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences to maximise its facilities.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to constructing the proposed Faculty of Law complex.
NELFUND Making Positive Impact
The commissioner urged staff members to intensify awareness campaigns on the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, stressing that the programme has become an important source of financial assistance for students from low-income backgrounds.
According to the university bursar, over 4,000 students have already accessed the loan scheme.
Tonukari described the figure as evidence that government interventions are expanding access to higher education while reducing financial barriers facing students.
University Reaffirms Commitment to Excellence
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sunny Awhefeada expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for its continued support and investment in the institution.
He reaffirmed Southern Delta University’s commitment to academic excellence, impactful research, innovation and community engagement, while pledging to continue building the institution into one of Nigeria’s foremost centres of learning.
The visit ended with renewed assurances of stronger collaboration between the university and the Delta State Government in advancing quality higher education throughout the state.
