UNIDEL VC Pledges Support for Language, Culture Preservation

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta, UNIDEL, Agbor, Prof. Eric Eboh, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the actualisation of major Ika cultural and educational projects within the institution, pledging to pursue them with urgency and determination.

Prof. Eboh made the pledge on Monday, June 30, 2026, when a high-powered delegation of Onu Ika Group Nigeria, the apex socio-cultural organisation of Ika-speaking people in Nigeria, paid him a courtesy visit.

He disclosed plans to establish a concrete action plan to fast-track the implementation of the projects, noting that the university has a responsibility to serve as a custodian of indigenous heritage.

The Vice-Chancellor praised the Group as a credible, influential, and highly respected organisation that has continued to make sacrifices for the advancement of the Ika nation. He commended its leadership for their commitment to community service and prayed for divine guidance and strength for the group.

Earlier, the 1st Vice, Collective Leadership of Onu Ika, Prof. Cletus Otene, said the delegation visited to congratulate the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and to offer the organisation's support and partnership to his administration. 

He expressed concern over the gradual decline of the Ika language and appealed to the University to become a major centre for the preservation and promotion of Ika cultural heritage.

The delegation specifically advocated for the actualisation of two key projects within UNIDEL: the Ika Mud House/Village project and the Ika Language and Cultural Centre. According to them, the projects would preserve the language, culture, and history of the Ika people while also promoting research and cultural education.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of books on various aspects of the Ika language and culture to Prof. Eric Eboh.

Members of the Onu Ika delegation included Dr. Shedrack Omumu, 2nd Vice, Collective Leadership; Chief Jeffrey Oti, Secretary; Chief Augustine Aghulor; Dr. Clement Isibor; Dr. Justin Okwunonke; Mrs. Peace Nnoruka; Chief Chuks Iku; and Hon. Steve Eghem.