The race to become the next Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University (RSU) is heating up, with 15 professors throwing their hats into the ring to succeed Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, whose tenure ends on March 5, 2025.
At a farewell press briefing in Port Harcourt, Okogbule confirmed the numbers: 15 applied, 13 were interviewed, and 3 names have now been forwarded to the university’s visitor—Governor Siminalayi Fubara—for the final decision.
“We followed every step of the university’s law to the letter—from advertising the position to screening and interviews,” Okogbule said. “Now, it’s up to His Excellency to pick the next VC.”
The Governor Holds the Cards
The selection process was handled by a joint Council-Senate Committee, which interviewed the shortlisted candidates and forwarded its recommendations to the Governing Council. That Council, in turn, has submitted the final shortlist of three candidates to the Governor.
“The law is clear—the Governor, as the university’s visitor, makes the final call,” Okogbule explained. “We trust his wisdom and sense of fairness to choose the best person for the job.”
A Career Built on Loyalty and Focus
Looking back on his career, Okogbule described himself as a one-university man, having joined RSU on October 11, 1988, and never working anywhere else.
“When you stay focused and dedicated to one place, people notice. I never looked for distractions—just focused on my responsibilities,” he said.
The Challenges Ahead: Power Crisis, Funding & Expansion
Okogbule didn’t sugarcoat the challenges his successor will face. Topping the list:
Funding pressures
The burden of running four new satellite campuses (Ahoada, Emuoha, Etche, and Kira)
The crippling energy crisis, which constantly disrupts operations.
His advice? Go solar.
“If the university can find the money for initial installation, solar energy could be a game-changer,” he said, adding that buildings should be assessed for solar compatibility to maximize the investment.
A Legacy of Stability and Progress
Despite the hurdles, Okogbule leaves behind a record he’s proud of:
5 uninterrupted academic years—no staff strikes, no student protests.
Successful graduation of the university’s first-ever medical doctors and nurses.
A perfect score in 2023 and 2024 NUC accreditations.
“Our success came from building strong relationships with staff unions and the students’ union,” Okogbule said.
What’s Next?
As the clock ticks toward March 5, the spotlight now shifts to Governor Fubara.
Will he choose continuity or shake things up?
Who will emerge as RSU’s next helmsman—or woman?
The battle for Rivers State University’s top seat is officially on.
