The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, has unveiled a ₦110 billion Strategic Development Plan for 2026–2030 aimed at positioning the institution among Nigeria’s top universities and globally competitive institutions.
The plan was launched on Wednesday during a meeting of the Governing Council, principal officers, and the university community at the Convocation Arena, according to a statement made available to The PUNCH.
Speaking at the event, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Okey Wali (SAN), said the success of the blueprint would depend on discipline, accountability, and collective commitment from stakeholders.
He identified key challenges confronting the university, including funding constraints, infrastructure gaps, weak research collaboration, and inefficiencies in service delivery, noting that the plan prioritises improved governance and diversification of funding sources.
Wali called on the government, donor agencies, alumni, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the initiative, expressing confidence that it would elevate the institution’s standing.
The strategic plan outlines measures such as strengthening alumni engagement, building partnerships, and adopting innovative fundraising strategies to ensure financial sustainability.
It also includes upgrading lecture halls and laboratories, expanding student accommodation, enhancing campus security, and deploying advanced ICT systems to support teaching and research.
On human capital development, the university plans to introduce staff training, mentorship programmes, and performance management systems to boost productivity.
The blueprint further emphasises research, innovation, and entrepreneurship through curriculum reviews, industry partnerships, and the establishment of innovation hubs.
While the university will fund part of the project internally, additional resources are expected from government support, donor agencies, alumni contributions, and public-private partnerships.
A monitoring and evaluation framework has been incorporated into the plan, with a mid-term review scheduled within two years, alongside the creation of a Strategic Planning Office to oversee
implementation.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, described the document as a roadmap for strengthening institutional capacity and addressing existing challenges.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Strategic Development Planning Committee, Prof. Emeritus Joseph Ajienka, said the plan reflects extensive consultations across faculties and administrative units, and aligns with the university’s core values of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.
Credit: ThePunch
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