Nigeria: Imo State Begins Construction Of Marine University

The government of Imo state has commenced the construction of the first ever Marine University in Africa at Ose-Moto, Oguta local government area of the state.

The state governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha who addressed newsmen shortly after inspecting the site, said that with the issue land now settled, work would soon commence. Governor Okorocha said that the university will be the first of its kind in Africa and would be of benefit to the community, Imo state and by extension Nigeria.

The Governor revealed that the first phase of the project will cost about N2.5 Billion which include the construction of the perimeter fence, landscaping, administrative blocks, class rooms and hostels.

He also said that Imo State Oil Producing Development Commission (ISOPADEC) that is funding the project has enough funds in its coffers to complete the project, assuring that the university will be ready to admit its first set of students in the next two years.

The governor further explained that the state government is collaborating with Korean Marine University after ISOPADEC board visited institution to understudy its programmes.

Governor Okorocha commended people of Ose-Moto community for donating their land for the university close to the river and the site of federal government sea port and a naval base project which he noted would be of great advantage to the institution.

Also speaking, Dr. Henry Uzor Okafor, the Managing Director of ISOPADEC, collaborated that the commission has financial capacity to complete the first phase of the project which would cost about N2.5 Billion in a swoop.

He expressed appreciation to the governor for giving approval of the site stressing that Ose-Moto people are eager to see the project succeed having donated their land for the university and to the
federal government for the naval base and sea port.

He averred that the project, when completed will benefit the oil producing areas of Ohaji Egbema and Oguta LGA in areas of employment as well as provide opportunities for the youths in the area to acquire university education that can guarantee them employment in the oil companies that operate in the state.

Mbisike N.C
Government House Press
June 17, 2013