Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has been installed as the second Chancellor of Western Delta University (WDU), Oghara, Delta State. The appointment was formalized during the university’s 14th convocation ceremony held over the weekend.
Duke, who was also conferred with a Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, succeeds the university’s pioneer Chancellor, Obong Victor Attah, the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Attah, who served the institution with distinction, stepped down at age 85 to enjoy a well-earned rest.
In his acceptance speech, Duke expressed gratitude to the university’s Senate for the honor, pledging to foster academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. “Together, we will cultivate a learning environment that prepares our students for an ever-changing world,” he said, emphasizing the importance of research, creativity, and entrepreneurship in modern education.
Duke also urged Nigerians to contribute to societal development within their capacities, saying, “No matter how humble, we all have a role to play in giving back to society.”
The convocation ceremony also honored Emeritus Professor Andrew Onokheroraye, the university’s first Pro-Chancellor, with a Doctor of Science, *Honoris Causa*, for his remarkable contributions to tertiary education and development in Nigeria.
Pro-Chancellor of WDU, Professor Emmanuel Eghosa Osaghae, described Duke as a “distinguished statesman and transformational leader” whose wealth of experience will advance the university’s growth. He also commended Obong Victor Attah for his foundational role in the institution and praised Professor Onokheroraye’s legacy of leadership and scholarship.
The event celebrated the achievements of graduating students and acknowledged the support of the university’s promoter and visitor, former Delta State Governor Chief James Ibori, for his vision and commitment to the institution’s establishment and success.
