The Coalition of Academics for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called on Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, to partner with it in promoting evidence-based public discourse, democratic governance, and sustainable development in Delta State.
The appeal was made by the Coordinator of the Coalition, Professor Lawrence Omo-Aghoja, during a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Samuel Ovuete Aghalino. FHSN, MAAH, MNAL, MNARC.
Congratulating Professor Aghalino on his appointment as Vice Chancellor, Professor Omo-Aghoja assured him of the support and cooperation of academics within and outside Dennis Osadebay University in advancing the institution’s vision and taking it to greater heights.
He explained that the Coalition comprises scholars and professionals who have worked together over the years with a shared commitment to objectively evaluate governance, acknowledge excellence where it exists, and provide constructive recommendations for improved public administration.
According to him, the Coalition believes that academics have a responsibility not only to criticise government where necessary but also to recognise and encourage exemplary leadership and good governance.
Professor Omo-Aghoja stated that the Coalition’s objective is to document and present verifiable evidence of government performance in areas such as infrastructure, human capital development, peace and security, and policy implementation through publications, documentaries, public lectures, conferences, and other advocacy platforms.
He disclosed that the Coalition would host a Strategic Workshop and Conference in the last week of September, bringing together academics, policymakers, professionals, and political leaders to examine democratic governance and objectively assess the developmental strides of the Delta State Government.
The Coordinator noted that the conference would feature keynote speakers from academia and the political sphere who would examine democratic principles alongside governance outcomes, enabling citizens to evaluate government performance based on facts and measurable results.
Professor Omo-Aghoja further informed the Vice Chancellor that the Coalition had commenced consultations with key stakeholders, including the Office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, the Speaker and members of the Delta State House of Assembly, and Commissioners in strategic ministries, to build broad support for its mission.
He explained that Dennis Osadebay University was deliberately selected as one of the Coalition’s first institutional engagements because of its strategic location in the state capital and its growing reputation for promoting scholarship, leadership, and democratic values through conferences and intellectual engagements. Moreso, the wide experience of the Vice Chancellor in socio-political engagements and activities down the ages.
Expressing confidence in the administration of the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Professor Omo-Aghoja said the Governor had fulfilled a significant number of his campaign promises and had demonstrated commendable leadership through visible developmental projects across the state.
He maintained that the progress recorded under the Governor’s administration should be sustained and called on Deltans, including those in the diaspora, to support the continued development of the state.
Responding, the Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Professor Samuel Ovuete Aghalino, commended the Coalition for its vision and commitment to promoting intellectual engagement and good governance.
Professor Aghalino recalled his involvement in various fora of intellectuals for good governance with an initiative to mobilise scholars and professionals to influence governance through research, policy advocacy, and informed public discourse.
He stressed that academics have a responsibility to participate actively in governance, noting that intellectuals should not remain on the sidelines while important decisions affecting society are being made.
The Vice Chancellor also praised Governor Oborevwori for what he described as purposeful leadership and impactful governance, observing that the Governor had exceeded the expectations of many critics through his performance.
Professor Aghalino assured the Coalition of the University’s readiness to collaborate with the group despite its status as a relatively young institution, adding that the partnership aligns with DOU’s vision of Academic Excellence, Global Reach, and Community Engagement through Town and Gown Relations.
He reaffirmed his commitment to positioning Dennis Osadebay University as an institution of international standard and a leading centre for scholarship, innovation, and community development.
