Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba assumes office as FUPRE’s new Vice Chancellor

Effurun, Delta State — Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba, a distinguished academic and former Dean of the College of Science, has officially taken the helm as the fifth substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Effurun. 

The ceremonial handover took place at the institution’s new auditorium, marking the formal transition from Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh to Prof. Agbalagba.

During his inaugural address, Prof. Agbalagba expressed profound appreciation to God and to all who played a role in his appointment — notably President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Education, the University’s Governing Council chaired by Alhaji Gachi Issa, and representatives from the Presidency. 

He also commended Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for fostering a conducive environment that has supported the University's progress.

He extended special recognition to royal fathers and local leaders including HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso (Abe I, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom), HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe), and the Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, along with FUPRE’s host communities, for their continued support.

Reflecting on the tenure of his predecessor, Prof. Agbalagba praised Engr. Prof. Rim-Rukeh’s transformative leadership, describing his achievements as a solid platform to build upon.

“Taking over from such a high-performing administrator gives hope for even greater accomplishments,” he remarked, pledging to enhance academic standards, improve infrastructure, and prioritize the welfare of both staff and students. 

He also announced plans to unveil a strategic blueprint to guide the University’s next chapter.

Prof. Agbalagba brings a wealth of academic and professional expertise. A specialist in Environmental Radiation Physics, he holds a PhD from the University of Port Harcourt, a Master’s degree in Environmental Physics, a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. 

He is also certified in Nuclear Security and registered as an Environmental Specialist. Notably, he ranks among Nigeria’s most cited scholars in his field and has received international acclaim for his research work.

Earlier, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Doris Ogeleka, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for Prof. Rim-Rukeh’s successful tenure. 

She highlighted the importance of holding a public transition ceremony, which was not possible at the time of the previous VC’s appointment due to pandemic restrictions.

In his farewell speech, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh looked back on his five years of service with gratitude, attributing his accomplishments to divine guidance and the dedicated efforts of his leadership team — including the DVCs, Registrar, Bursar, and staff.

He expressed strong confidence in Prof. Agbalagba’s leadership, describing the handover as smooth and promising for the University’s future.