BY RITA OYIBOKA
The Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC), publishers of The Pointer Newspaper has honoured the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri with an award for Excellence in Public Service.
The award was presented by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the corporation, Olorogun (Dr) Ebenezer Okorodudu in recognition of the rector’s exceptional contributions yesterday in Asaba.
The award presentation was part of a series of honours conferred during the newspaper’s recent 30th-anniversary celebration.
In his address at the ceremony, the DPPC board chairman highlighted the significant strides the paper has made over the years.
“The Pointer has evolved into the best state-owned newspaper in Nigeria. Our 30th anniversary celebration was not only a testament to this growth but also marked one of the most memorable events in Delta State’s history, graced by the state governor, Rt. Hon. Sherriff Oborevwori, top government officials, business leaders, traditional rulers, and representatives from various sectors,” he said.
Okorodudu also credited the success of the paper to the support of the State Ministry of Information, led by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, whose backing has been crucial in driving The Pointer’s innovations.
“Without the Ministry’s support, our ideas for progress would have struggled to take flight,” he remarked, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the General Manager, editors, and staff members who have helped propel the newspaper to its current stature.
Turning to the award recipient, Okorodudu praised the Rector’s vision and leadership. “Your exceptional contributions to Delta State Polytechnic have not only elevated the institution but also the state itself.
‘’With your background in mass communication, you have led innovative strides in both academia and the technical engineering field, including your pioneering work on the fuel-less generator, a feat that has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally,” he said.
“Your administrative leadership, management of resources, and operational expertise have made you a role model and an asset to Delta State, and it is in honour of these achievements that we present you with this award.”
In his acceptance speech, the rector expressed gratitude, dedicating the award to God and acknowledging the collaborative efforts of his team.
“I accept this recognition with deep humility and responsibility, and I see it as a call to continue our work with even greater dedication. This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone at Delta State Polytechnic and together we will continue to elevate our institution and set a standard for others to follow.”
The event was attended by the General Manager of The Pointer Newspaper, Mr. Geoffrey Ubaka along with staff and management of the organisation.
