In a move that signals its commitment to education and infrastructural development, the Bayelsa State Government has unveiled Messrs Architectonic Ltd, owned by celebrated Ijaw architect, Reuben Okoya, as the contractor for the construction of a massive 10,000-capacity Convocation Arena at Niger Delta University (NDU).
The groundbreaking project, described as a "legacy initiative," was recently approved and awarded by the State Executive Council, under the leadership of Governor Douye Diri, aiming to elevate the state-owned university with a world-class convocation arena.
Speaking on the project during a site visit to NDU, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, said the inspection was to assess the location and ensure the project aligns with the governor’s vision of delivering excellence.
Emelah emphasized the significance of awarding the project to a trusted Bayelsan, Architect Reuben Okoya, whose firm has earned a reputation for delivering premium projects. “This is more than just a building; it is part of His Excellency’s legacy to provide the university with a befitting convocation arena that will stand the test of time,” Emelah declared.
He added: “I officially unveiled Messrs Architectonic Ltd as the contractor. The governor is passionate about this project and insisted it be entrusted to a son of the soil with a proven track record of quality service.”
Dr. Emelah was accompanied by key officials from the Ministry of Education, including Permanent Secretary Mr. Simon-Peter Okene, Director of Finance Mr. Joe Sikpi, Acting Project Manager Engr. Goodluck Ofodah, and Ministry representative on NDU’s Governing Council, Mr. Faith Ogbara.
They were received by NDU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Allen Agih, alongside principal officers of the university, who expressed gratitude for the state government’s commitment to the institution's development.
Governor Douye Diri’s administration has pledged to revolutionize education in the state, and the 10,000-capacity convocation arena is poised to be a key milestone in that vision. Observers say the project will not only enhance the prestige of NDU but also attract regional and international attention.
With Architectonic Ltd at the helm, the Bayelsa government is banking on Okoya’s expertise to deliver a structure that will make history in the Niger Delta. The countdown to one of the largest convocation arenas in Nigeria has officially begun.
The multi-billion-naira project is expected to set new standards, and all eyes are now on Architect Okoya and his team to make good on the promise of transforming NDU’s landscape with this iconic facility.
