Asaba, Delta State, February 14, 2026 – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm and heartfelt felicitations to the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described Prof. Tonukari as a distinguished scholar, renowned academic, and dedicated public servant whose contributions to education and governance continue to be invaluable to Delta State.
The governor lauded Prof. Tonukari as a Professor of Molecular Biotechnology at Delta State University, Abraka, where he has built an enviable reputation in research, innovation, and mentorship. He noted that the celebrant has produced generations of students who are making meaningful contributions in various fields across Nigeria and the global academic community.
Governor Oborevwori commended Prof. Tonukari’s unwavering dedication to duty and his strategic role in advancing the administration’s MORE Agenda within the tertiary education sub-sector. He highlighted how the commissioner’s wealth of experience in academia has brought renewed focus, discipline, and forward-thinking reforms to the state’s higher institutions.
“Professor Tonukari has consistently demonstrated integrity, intellectual depth and administrative competence in the discharge of his responsibilities,” the statement read. “His leadership in the Ministry of Higher Education has contributed immensely to the modest but steady achievements recorded in our tertiary institutions.”
The governor praised Prof. Tonukari for strengthening policy implementation, promoting research-driven development, encouraging institutional accreditation efforts, and fostering a culture of excellence in Delta’s universities and polytechnics.
He further acknowledged the commissioner’s humility, accessibility, and passion for youth development, describing him as a bridge-builder who continues to inspire both colleagues and students through exemplary service and mentorship.
On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, Governor Oborevwori wished Prof. Tonukari many more years of good health, abundant wisdom, and personal fulfillment. He expressed confidence that the celebrant would continue to deploy his vast knowledge and experience toward strengthening the educational foundations of Delta State.
The governor prayed that the milestone birthday would usher in greater accomplishments, renewed strength, and sustained service to the state and humanity at large.
Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari has been a key figure in Delta State’s higher education sector, bringing academic rigour and administrative expertise to his role as Commissioner. His contributions have supported the Oborevwori administration’s focus on revitalising tertiary institutions, improving access to quality education, and aligning academic programmes with the state’s development priorities under the MORE Agenda.
Well-wishers, academic colleagues, students, and political associates across Delta State have joined the governor in celebrating Prof. Tonukari’s 60th birthday, praying for continued good health, wisdom, and greater impact in his service to education and the state.

