UNIPORT Governing Council Commissions Revitalised Bottling Plant, Approves Promotions, Inspects Key Infrastructure Projects

The Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) has commissioned the institution’s newly revitalised bottling plant, in a move aimed at strengthening internally generated revenue and improving operational efficiency within the university system.

The commissioning ceremony was performed over the weekend by the Chairman of Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, who described the upgraded facility as a strategic investment in the university’s long-term financial sustainability.

The modernised plant is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and has a production capacity of up to 8,000 bags per day, positioning it as a key revenue-generating asset for the institution.

During the visit, Council members also undertook an inspection tour of several ongoing infrastructure projects within the university. These included a solar farm project constructed by the Federal Government to ensure stable and uninterrupted electricity supply, as well as a hostel accommodation project being executed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement to address student housing challenges.

In a related development, the Governing Council approved the promotion of several academic and non-academic staff as part of its commitment to institutional growth and staff welfare. Beneficiaries include academics elevated to the ranks of Professor and Associate Professor, as well as seven staff members promoted to Director level. Additional approvals covered promotions for Deputy Registrars and personnel within the Bursary and Audit units, among others.

Speaking during the engagements, Senator Ohuabunwa reaffirmed the Council’s strategic vision to reposition the University of Port Harcourt as a globally competitive institution.

He emphasized that sustained investment in infrastructure, academic excellence, and innovation remains central to making the university a benchmark for higher education and a reference point among its peers.

The Council’s visit and series of approvals reflect a broader push to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance service delivery, and improve the overall academic environment at UniPort.