Federal Polytechnic Orogun has recorded a major milestone with the confirmation of Dr. Efetobor Ogheneyoma Elijah as its first-ever Deputy Rector (Academic). The Governing Council ratified his election at its meeting on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, marking the beginning of a single, non-renewable four-year tenure.
The Council’s decision followed Dr. Efetobor’s sweeping victory during the Academic Board election held on November 12, 2025, conducted in alignment with the Federal Polytechnics (Amendment) Act, 2019.
With the ratification, Dr. Efetobor formally assumes a pioneering role that places him at the heart of the institution’s academic leadership—supporting the Rector in academic administration, acting when required, and performing additional duties assigned by the Rector or Governing Council.
Responding to the announcement, a visibly elated Dr. Efetobor expressed heartfelt gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to the institution’s vision.
“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 the overwhelming confidence they have shown; and to the Governing Council, ably led by Prof. Niyi Akinnaso, for ratifying my election.”
Pledging renewed dedication to academic excellence, he added:
“This appointment is a call to greater responsibility. I will work tirelessly to add value to the 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 we will continue building an institution anchored on excellence, integrity, and innovation.”
Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Niyi Akinnaso, described the appointment as a strategic boost to the Polytechnic’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 the Management in delivering excellence, innovation, and stability. The Council looks forward to his contributions to the growth of the Polytechnic.”
The Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic Orogun Chapter, Dr. John Atake, echoed similar sentiments, praising Dr. Efetobor’s credentials and service record.
“This is a well-deserved appointment,” Atake said. “Dr. Efetobor has proven his competence in every office he has held—Director of Academic Planning, and Headship of Department. As a Union, we are confident he will excel as Deputy Rector (Academic).”
Before this elevation, Dr. Efetobor served in pivotal roles including Head of Department, Mass Communication; Director, Academic Planning; and TETFund Desk Officer. A specialist in curriculum development and institutional quality enhancement, he also serves as a visiting Associate Professor at Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State.
Born in 1977 in Obodeti-Orogun, Ughelli North LGA of Delta State, he holds B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees in Mass Communication from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). A prolific academic, he has authored numerous publications and belongs to several professional bodies, including NIPR, ACSPN, and NUJ.
Stakeholders view his emergence as a catalyst for deeper academic growth, noting his administrative skill, scholarly depth, and proven leadership qualities.
With the Council’s ratification now secured, Dr. Efetobor is expected to play a defining role in advancing the Rector’s vision of building a world-class polytechnic driven by excellence, innovation, and sustainable development.
