UNIDEL Vice-Chancellor Backs EPAC’s Environmental Advocacy Drive

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta, Agbor (UNIDEL), Prof. Eric Eboh, has expressed strong institutional support for environmental advocacy and public health awareness initiatives, calling on students and researchers to prioritize evidence-based campaigns capable of attracting global attention and international funding.

Prof. Eboh made the remarks on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, while receiving executive members of the Environmental Protection and Advocacy Club (EPAC) during a courtesy visit to his office.

The EPAC delegation, led by its President, Dr. Paul Diagboya, briefed the Vice-Chancellor on the club’s ongoing activities and upcoming programmes, while seeking deeper institutional collaboration in addressing environmental and public health challenges within and beyond the university community.

Dr. Diagboya raised concerns over the persistent neglect of environmental and public health issues, warning that such lapses are increasingly linked to sudden deaths, food contamination, and a range of preventable health complications affecting society. He emphasized the need for sustained awareness campaigns targeted at students and the general public to reduce health risks and promote safer environmental practices.

He further disclosed that EPAC is scheduled to host a major awareness programme at the university’s Main Campus on Friday, June 5, 2026, in commemoration of World Environment Day 2026. According to him, the event will focus on environmental safety, public health risks, and sustainable agricultural practices.

The EPAC President also expressed concern over the indiscriminate use of insecticides and fertilizers on agricultural produce, as well as poor preservation methods for food and cash crops, describing them as unsafe practices with potentially severe health implications for consumers.

In his response, Prof. Eboh commended the club for its vision, interdisciplinary structure, and commitment to environmental advocacy. He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s “Project RAISE,” which focuses on institutional transformation and academic impact.

“I am impressed by what you are doing, especially coming from different departments and faculties to form this laudable group,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

“What you have activated aligns with my RAISE project for taking UNIDEL to greater heights. We are open to collaboration and support. However, I strongly encourage you to strengthen the research component of your work to attract wider international relevance and funding.”

He further stated that research-driven advocacy remains essential for credibility, scalability, and global engagement in contemporary environmental discourse.

The Vice-Chancellor also approved a patronage role for the group, signaling formal institutional recognition of EPAC’s activities.

Members of the EPAC delegation included the Treasurer, Atabor Bright; Secretary, Ugbawa Godlene Osokan; Public Relations Officer, Iwegbu C.J.; and Dr. Iwegbu Ewere Rosemary.

Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Ijeh; Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Esther Akpojuvie; Bursar, Dr. Sunny Ikeogwu; and University Librarian, Dr. Vera Okonoko.