Prof. Dozie, who has officially assumed duty as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution, said the policies and support from both leaders have created a favourable environment for growth, innovation, and development in tertiary education.

He made the remarks shortly after his appointment at the Senate Chamber, where he expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in him and pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessors while introducing new reforms.

“I commend President Tinubu and Governor Uzodimma for their commitment to repositioning education in Nigeria. Their leadership has provided the necessary framework for institutions like FUTO to thrive,” he said.

He assured stakeholders that his administration would prioritise academic excellence, research advancement, and infrastructural development to improve the university’s global standing.

Prof. Dozie also promised to fast-track ongoing projects and introduce reforms aimed at improving teaching and learning outcomes.

“My vision is to take FUTO to greater heights by promoting innovation, strengthening industry partnerships, and ensuring our graduates remain globally competitive,” he added.

His appointment followed what the university described as a transparent and rigorous selection process conducted by its Governing Council.

Before his emergence, he served as Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba (KO) Mbadiwe University, Ogboko, in Imo State.

Expressing joy over his new role, Dozie said he remains committed to advancing the institution’s founding vision while consolidating past achievements.

“The vision is to reposition this university into a truly world-class institution. That is what I have come to do with the team on ground,” he said.

He further pledged continuity, stability, and progress, stressing that his leadership would build on previous efforts while expanding academic frontiers.

The outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oti, expressed gratitude for her tenure, describing it as peaceful and inclusive, while reflecting on her journey with the institution.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, commended the outgoing VC for her achievements and confirmed Prof. Dozie’s appointment, describing the selection process as fair and credible.

The event was attended by members of the university governing council, staff, students, and other stakeholders.

The declaration took place at Oharisi Primary School in Ughelli and attracted a large turnout of party members and stakeholders from the eight local government areas of Delta Central, reflecting what party leaders described as a broad consensus in his favour.

Among those who endorsed him were APC founding leader in Delta State, O’tega Emerhor; former senator, Ighoyota Amori; businessman and party leader, John Oguma; South-South APC Chairman, Koyoyo Uhrorho; as well as other party executives across the senatorial district.

In his declaration, Dafinone pledged to serve with renewed commitment if re-elected, promising to build on ongoing projects and expand economic opportunities across the region.

He said his decision followed extensive consultations with constituents and party leaders, as well as deep reflection on his first term in office.

Expressing appreciation to his supporters, the senator described himself as a proud son of the Urhobo nation dedicated to accountable and result-oriented leadership.

“Leadership is not a badge of rank, but a burden of service. My approach has always been clear: engage our people, do the work, and deliver results that are real and measurable,” he said.

Dafinone credited his discipline and leadership style to his late father, David Omueya Dafinone, noting that his background as a chartered accountant has shaped his approach to governance.

He outlined key achievements, including advocacy for the revitalisation of Sapele Seaport, extension of the Ujevwu-Itakpe rail line to Abuja, and improvements on the Effurun-Sapele-Benin Road.

He also highlighted the installation of transformers across communities, establishment of ICT centres in schools, and the Delta Central Medical Outreach, which has reportedly reached thousands of residents.

Ongoing projects include a 50-bed hostel at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, and a train stop station at Egbo Uhurie in Ughelli South LGA.

The senator further noted legislative efforts such as bills proposing new federal universities in Isiokolo and Orerokpe, as well as interventions during the Okuama crisis that aided the release of detained community leaders.

He described his first term as “consistent, visible, and impactful,” adding that his focus remains on positioning Delta Central as an economic hub.

Dafinone also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing them as bold steps toward long-term stability.

He praised Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for ongoing infrastructure development, including road projects, flood control efforts, and the Otovwodo Flyover.

According to him, collaboration between the federal, state, and legislative arms remains key to accelerating development in Delta Central.

“As we look ahead, Delta Central needs steady, thoughtful and accountable leadership that delivers consistently,” he said, adding that his priority would be to deepen economic growth, youth empowerment, education, and infrastructure development if re-elected.

He emphasized that his political journey is focused on collective progress and building a stronger future for the next generation.

In his remarks, Ighoyota Amori, who contested against Dafinone in 2023, said the senator had proven his capacity and deserved a second term, noting that party leaders had unanimously endorsed him.

Other leaders, including Uhrorho and Oguma, also praised Dafinone’s performance, particularly his interventions during the Okuama crisis and other constituency matters.

Emerhor further strengthened the endorsement by withdrawing from the senatorial race and pledging support for Dafinone in the interest of party unity.

The event was attended by top APC stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, lawmakers, local government chairmen, and party executives.