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RVHA Probes RSUST Post-JAMB Tests
The Rivers State House of Assembly yesterday condemned in strong terms the manner in which the authorities of Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) Port Harcourt conducted its 2009 aptitude test for selection of candidates for admission into the institution, last weekend.
The lawmakers made the condemnation through a motion of adjournment brought to the floor of the House by Hon Jaja Tamunosisi Gogo, Opobo/Nkoro, during a special session of the House.
Hon Jaja had drawn the attention of the state lawmakers to recent development at the University especially as it concerns admissions.
According to him, he has been bombarded with lots of text messages from his constituents over the conduct of the recent aptitude test conducted by the management of the RSUST.
He stated that the university authority subjected prospective candidates who sat for the 2009 aptitude test to purchase a form at the cost of N2,000 as condition for participating in the examination.
The lawmaker informed the legislators that the prospective candidates were subjected to write the aptitude examination via a computer, noting that such process was very wrong.
He opined that most of the candidates were not familiar with computer application neither were they all computer literate, adding that such treatment would amount to a high level of injustice against the candidates.
He alleged that the son of the Vice Chancellor of the school is the consultant of the university computer system which, he said has made it difficult for the system to function effectively.
The lawmaker also said that the essence of establishing the state university by the state government was to enable indigenes of the state, who could not gain admission to other universities to have the opportunity to do so in the state.
“Mr Speaker and my colleagues, let me say that the reason for establishing the state university is to let our people who can not go the Kano, Lagos, Kaduna states to get admission for higher learning have the opportunity.
With the recent development in the admission process in the institution, the benefit for which the institution was established is being defeated,” he added.
He thus urged the House to direct the House Committee on Education to investigate the matter and bring their report to the House for prompt attention.
In their contributions, Hon Ibam Ikuinyi Owaji (Andoni) and Inimgba Irene Martins, while supporting the motion, enjoined the lawmakers to rise up to their responsibilities and ensure that the management of the university does not deny indigenes of the state the opportunity to gain admission into the university.
The lawmakers were unanimous in condemning candidates who are coming from rural areas to write test with computer even as they urged the school authority to make the university become more accessible to the people.
In his ruling, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Tonye Harry directed the House Committee on Education to investigate the matter and report to the House for further action.
Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Tonye Harry (right) listening to Barr. O. T. Amachree, chairman, Nigeria Bar Association, Rivers State, during the first Marshall Harry Memorial Lecture at Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt last Monday. Photo: Chris Monyanaga
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
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