Ogheneruona Tejiri, Ughelli
In a bid to express their faith and gratitude to God, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, Vice-Chancellor of Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro alongside his wife, Prof. (Mrs.) Ufuoma Awhefeada, and family, has held a thanksgiving Mass to appreciate God Almighty for His faithfulness, blessings, and the privilege of leading the University.
The colourful and spiritually uplifting ceremony took place at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Iwhrekpokpo, Ughelli, bringing together family members, friends, academic colleagues, traditional rulers, clergy, and distinguished dignitaries to celebrate the renowned scholar and university administrator.
The Mass was celebrated by His Lordship Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Bishop of Warri Diocese assisted by several other priests.
The service featured hymns of praises, scriptural readings, and intercessory prayers, as the congregation offered thanks to God for Professor Awhefeada’s academic achievements, leadership appointments, and continued well-being.
Among the distinguished personalities at the occasion were Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education who represented Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State.
His presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the esteem in which Prof. Awhefeada is held within the state’s higher education sector. The University principal officers and Staff of SDU were also in attendance.
Other dignitaries included Senator Ede Dafinone, Senator representing Delta Centra, Chief Ovouzourie Macaulay, former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Okiroro of Isoko, senior academics from Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, and Southern Delta University, Ozoro; members of the Urhobo traditional institution; clergy from various denominations; community leaders; friends, and well-wishers from Ughelli and beyond.
The thanksgiving ceremony was more than a celebration; it was a moment of reflection on God’s grace, the value of service, and the responsibilities that accompany leadership.
For Professor Awhefeada and his family, the occasion offered an opportunity to acknowledge God’s blessings and seek continued divine wisdom, strength, and guidance for the journey ahead.
As he continues to steer the affairs of Southern Delta University, the University community and well-wishers celebrate this special moment with him, expressing hope for greater accomplishments in academic excellence, research, innovation, and institutional development.
