In a landmark decision that strengthens the administrative foundation of Federal Polytechnic Orogun, the Governing Council has ratified the election of Dr. Efetobor Ogheneyoma Elijah as the institution’s first Deputy Rector (Academic). The ratification was announced during the Council’s meeting on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, confirming his appointment for a single, non-renewable four-year tenure.
Dr. Efetobor’s elevation follows his decisive victory in the Academic Board election held on November 12, 2025, in line with provisions of the Federal Polytechnics (Amendment) Act, 2019. His appointment marks a historic milestone as he becomes the pioneer Deputy Rector (Academic), tasked with supporting the Rector in academic administration, acting in his absence, and performing other duties assigned by the Rector or Governing Council.
Speaking after the announcement, a visibly delighted Dr. Efetobor expressed profound gratitude to God and appreciation to the institution’s leadership.
“I am profoundly grateful to God for this honour and privilege,” he said. “My heartfelt appreciation goes to our digital and visionary Rector, Prof. Duke Okoro, for nominating me; to the Academic Board for their overwhelming support; and to the Governing Council, led by Prof. Niyi Akinnaso, for ratifying my election.”
He pledged unwavering commitment to the Polytechnic’s mission, promising to inject renewed vigour into the institution’s academic administration.
“This appointment is a call to greater responsibility,” he affirmed. “I will work tirelessly to add value to our already robust Management Team and uphold the core values, ideals, and future-focused aspirations of Federal Polytechnic Orogun. I am here to serve—to support our Rector—and together we will continue building an institution anchored on excellence, integrity, and innovation.”
Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Niyi Akinnaso, described the ratification as a major step toward strengthening the institution’s academic leadership.
“Dr. Efetobor’s emergence reflects the confidence the Academic Board has in his capacity,” he said. “We expect him to justify this trust by supporting Management in deepening excellence, innovation, and stability. The Council looks forward to his contributions to the Polytechnic’s growth.”
Similarly, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic Orogun Chapter, Dr. John Atake, hailed the appointment as well-deserved, noting that Dr. Efetobor’s track record demonstrates competence and dedication.
“Dr. Efetobor has proven his capacity in every office he has held—Director of Academic Planning and Head of Department,” Atake stated. “As a Union, we are confident he will excel as Deputy Rector (Academic).”
Before his elevation, Dr. Efetobor served in several strategic positions, including Head of the Mass Communication Department, Director of Academic Planning, and TETFund Desk Officer. A specialist in curriculum development, academic planning, and institutional quality enhancement, he is also a visiting Associate Professor at Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State.
Born in 1977 in Obodeti-Orogun, Delta State, Dr. Efetobor holds B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees in Mass Communication from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). A prolific academic, he has published extensively and is an active member of professional bodies such as NIPR, ACSPN, and NUJ.
Widely respected for his administrative competence, academic depth, and leadership qualities, stakeholders believe his appointment will further energize the Polytechnic’s academic development structure and strengthen its rising profile.
With his ratification now complete, Dr. Efetobor sets his focus on advancing the Rector’s vision of a world-class institution driven by innovation, academic excellence, and sustainable development.
