By Victor G. Banigo
Management of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has reiterated the institution’s commitment to academic excellence through continuous reinvention.
Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, speaking at the 2025 RSU Renaissance Retreat, which held in Port Harcourt, from 4th to 7th June, 2025, said the Retreat was put together to share Management’s vision of moving RSU towards global relevance.
Professor Zeb-Obipi emphasized that the university’s vision is anchored on redefining standards, confronting institutional challenges, and setting bold, strategic goals. He noted that RSU is on a path of renewal that demands a collective and visionary approach.
The Vice Chancellor stated that the university has always embraced excellence as its core identity. He explained that true excellence requires everyone to push boundaries, redefine standards, and set transformative goals.
“This retreat is not just a meeting; it is a movement toward an RSU that does not just exist but leads,” the VC said. He mentioned strategic blueprint aimed at positioning RSU among the top three universities in Nigeria, top 20 in Africa, and top 100 globally. He highlighted that the university will focus on improving academic service delivery, enhancing administrative efficiency, expanding institutional partnerships, boosting funding capacity, advancing student welfare, and improving graduate employability.
Professor Zeb-Obipi stressed that students are the heartbeat of the university and their welfare must be prioritized through strong support systems, conducive learning environments, and policies that promote holistic development. He also underscored the need to equip RSU graduates with practical skills and entrepreneurial mindsets that will empower them to succeed in the global market. “It’s not enough for our graduates to be educated—they must also be empowered,” he said.
He called on participants at the retreat to contribute with “vision, passion, and unwavering conviction,” reiterating that RSU was once among the most highly regarded institutions in Nigeria and must reclaim that position through a renaissance of effective leadership, efficient administration and innovation-driven strategies.
Concluding the VC expressed optimism that the retreat will spark innovative ideas, challenge norms, and lay the foundation for a world acclaimed university that shall stand among the global best citadel of learning.
Participants at the Retreat had rewarding experience in the various sessions which includes: presentation, brainstorming, strategic resolutions, networking, sports and games between 3 groups; namely: CST, UST and RSU.