The Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, announced the successful establishment of the Okpo Community Study Centre during its commissioning ceremony held today in Okpo, the headquarters of Olamaboro Local Government Area in Kogi State. The event marks a significant milestone in expanding educational access in the region.

In his address, Prof. Uduma praised the contributions of Sir Felix Edoka, the immediate past Registrar of NOUN, for his dedication to the realization of the Centre. "The people here are of exceptional quality and impressive quantity. We have clear, standard, and well-defined steps we meticulously follow to establish a study centre. Most times, people fail to follow these due processes. We normally conduct a comprehensive checklist assessment before any inauguration," he stated.

Prof. Uduma expressed his personal connection to Edoka, saying, "For the special reason of Mr. Felix Edoka, I simply couldn't say no, because of our long-standing, cordial and cherished relationship. I am truly happy to be here; his judgement is remarkably sharp and impeccable."

He further acknowledged the support of the Okpo community, particularly thanking the Chief of Army Staff for aiding in the renovation of the facility. "We have come to commission it today, and after this commissioning, we will return shortly for a formal and total takeover, which I strongly believe will be very soon," he concluded.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Registrar of the University, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, congratulated the Okpo community for their collective efforts in establishing the Study Centre. He commended Sir Felix Edoka for his unwavering commitment to the project, stating, "I pray that everyone who seeks knowledge may find it abundantly here."

Ajayi also expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to the university management, which he noted signifies profound recognition of the Vice-Chancellor's presence.

Prof. Tessy Angba, the Director of Learners Support Services, delivered an inspiring address, drawing on the biblical proverb, "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord." She rephrased this to emphasize the importance of education: "Whosoever seeks knowledge seeks a good thing; and a community that brings education closer to its people has secured an eternal blessing for generations."

Prof. Angba highlighted that the commissioning of the Centre represents not just the establishment of a learning facility but also the opening of doors to opportunities and the promise of higher education for the community. "This remarkable occasion represents more than the mere establishment of a learning facility. It is a glowing demonstration of what becomes possible when a resilient community recognizes the invaluable value of education and takes bold, deliberate steps to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for its people," she maintained.

Group Photograph at the end of the event