Royal Fathers, Vice-Chancellors, Clergy, and Dignitaries Grace Historic Event
Delta State University, Abraka, witnessed an atmosphere of elegance, intellect, and celebration on Thursday, November 27, 2025, as Engr. Prof. Hilary E. Owamah, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), delivered the institution’s 115th Inaugural Lecture. The event, described by many as one of the most distinguished in recent years, drew an impressive assembly of royal fathers, top academics, senior political associates, clergy, and members of the university community.
The lecture, titled “Harmony in Crises: Green Engineering Solutions for a Fragile World,” examined the human-induced pressures destabilizing the global ecosystem and presented innovative green engineering strategies capable of restoring environmental stability. Prof. Owamah, a renowned researcher in environmental sustainability and wastewater engineering, used the platform to highlight his scholarly contributions while offering hope-driven pathways to achieving a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable planet.
A Royal Procession Like No Other
One of the most striking features of the event was the grand presence of traditional rulers. No fewer than 12 Kings from Anioma, led by Prof. Owamah’s own monarch, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, attended the lecture. They were joined by the two revered monarchs of the Abraka Kingdoms, whose regal presence added colour, prestige, and a deeply cultural essence to the ceremony.
Observers described the gathering of royal fathers as unprecedented in the history of DELSU’s inaugural lectures, noting that their attendance underscored both the respect and admiration Prof. Owamah commands across Delta State and beyond.
Academia, Politics, and Clergy in Full Support
The auditorium also welcomed several Vice-Chancellors from neighbouring states, members of the DELSU Governing Council, senior political associates of the scholar, and captains of various sectors. Among the distinguished guests were Rt. Rev. Godfrey Ifeanyichukwu Ekpenisi, Bishop of the Anglican Communion, Ika Diocese, and Bishop Fidelis Agbabi, whose spiritual presence enriched the ceremony.
Prof. Owamah expressed profound gratitude to all guests, noting that their solidarity turned the event into a memorable and deeply emotional milestone in his academic journey.
A Lecture Rooted in Scholarship, Experience, and Vision
In his presentation, Prof. Owamah shed light on the critical role humans play in environmental crises—from pollution to ecosystem degradation—and emphasized the urgent need for solutions anchored in science, innovation, and responsible engineering. He highlighted several of his research contributions in wastewater treatment, sustainable energy, and infrastructure systems, reaffirming his commitment to using science to safeguard the planet.
Tributes to Mentors and Leadership
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor used the occasion to acknowledge the pivotal figures who shaped his scholarly ascent.
He paid glowing tribute to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel O. Asagba, for entrusting him with the responsibility of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), a role he assumed in March 2025.
He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to his predecessors:
- Prof. Andy Egwunyenga, who appointed him Director of Academic Planning in 2022, and
- Prof. Victor F. Peretomode, who offered him his first academic appointment and named him Head of Department just seven months later.
“These leaders invested their trust in me at crucial stages of my development,” he said. “Their confidence continues to inspire my service to our university.”
A Son’s Tribute to a Mother’s Legacy
In one of the most emotional moments of the day, Prof. Owamah declared the lecture a special dedication to the memory of his late mother, whose passing last year left a deep void in his family. He described her as a woman of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination—qualities he credits for the success of himself and his siblings.
About Prof. Hilary E. Owamah
Engr. Prof. Hilary Owamah is a distinguished Nigerian Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering and a prominent figure in environmental sustainability research. Widely recognized for his pioneering work in wastewater management and infrastructure systems, he has earned both national and international acclaim.
Appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) in February 2025, he is celebrated as the youngest professor in DELSU’s history to hold the prestigious office at the time of an inaugural lecture.
A Day of Gratitude and Celebration
Reflecting on the event, Prof. Owamah described the experience as “an extraordinary success,” noting that his heart “overflows with gratitude.” He concluded with a declaration of faith that resonated strongly with the audience:
“To God alone be all the glory.”
The 115th Inaugural Lecture not only showcased DELSU’s thriving academic culture but also reaffirmed Prof. Owamah’s place as one of Nigeria’s leading environmental engineering scholars and a rising academic administrator with a compelling vision for sustainable development.
Fresh Facts Magazine will continue to follow and report on the impact of this landmark lecture across the academic and scientific communities.
