BY IFEANYI UWAGWU
The Admiralty University of Nigeria (ADUN) marked its third convocation ceremony, yesterday, celebrating the academic achievements of 100 students across various departments and faculties.
Held at the university’s campus, the event was declared open by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dili Ofuokwu. Seven students were awarded First-Class Honours, while 51 earned Second-Class (Upper Division), 41 graduated with Lower Division degrees, and one student achieved a Third-Class Honours degree.
A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Miss Somtochukwu Onwuliri from the Department of Forensic Science as the best graduating student. She received six individual awards and cash prizes totalling ₦665,000.
Addressing the graduates, Prof Ofuokwu urged them to make their alma mater proud as they venture into the wider world. He emphasised the importance of applying the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to overcome challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
Despite being a young institution and Nigeria’s 154th tertiary establishment, Prof Ofuokwu noted that ADUN has made significant progress. He highlighted the university’s growing student population, which increased from 231 during the 2018/2019 session to 1,136 in the 2024/2025 academic year. This growth follows a 50 per cent reduction in tuition fees after ADUN became a fully public university, leading to a 70 per cent rise in the number of applicants.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor also outlined the university’s recent advancements, including the establishment of a Law Clinic. This initiative allows law students to gain practical experience through moot court programmes and placements in law firms across the country, with 17 students currently benefiting from the scheme.
He also mentioned that new programmes have been earmarked to begin from the next academic session, as they have been granted accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC), alongside several post-graduate programmes.
Prof Ofuokwu called on stakeholders and friends of the institution to support its infrastructure development, acknowledging the pressing need for improvement. He expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for constructing an additional hostel block, which is nearing completion. The ceremony, which was attended by dignitaries, including service chiefs, showcased ADUN’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and practical training for its students.
