RSU Spirit: Adias, Opara, Zeb-Obipi Advocate Legacy Leadership at 4th Distinguished Alumni Mentoring Series
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The call for the preservation of institutional values and the cultivation of mentorship took center stage at the 4th Edition of the Rivers State University (RSU) Distinguished Alumni Mentoring Series held recently in Port Harcourt.
Top academics, political heavyweights, and alumni gathered under the theme "Building Legacy Leadership in the Nigerian University System: The RSU Spirit in Perspective" to chart a new course for the institution.
Delivering the Keynote Address, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Prof. Teddy Adias, described the "RSU Spirit" as a philosophy of continuity and excellence.
Prof. Adias likened the RSU spirit to a "spirit of capitalism," a concept conceived by social activist Mark Webber, which symbolizes a relentless zeal for change and distinction."This spirit is a living culture of the university, embodied in its people, ideas, values, and behaviors, underscoring a commitment to excellence and creativity," Adias stated.
He emphasized that the true spirit of the institution is not found in physical buildings or ceremonial robes, but in the character of its people and their actions.According to the Keynote Speaker, the university's legacy leadership model consists of three critical components: institutional systems, people and culture, and the alumni community.
Adias argued that the RSU spirit requires a "collective covenant" to connect past and present generations while embracing creativity and adaptation."The RSU spirit is a philosophy of continuity, housed in the belief that true leadership is not about duration or tenure, but about the transfer of ideals," he noted.
Speaking to journalists shortly after his presentation, Prof. Adias reiterated that adaptation is key to keeping up with changing times as the world evolves.When asked about the National Language Policy, the Otuoke Vice Chancellor stated he would reserve comment until the university has officially reviewed the relevant documents.
Presiding as the Chairman of the Occasion, Former Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria House of Representatives, Hon. Austin Opara, described the university environment as a microcosm of the larger society.
Hon. Opara noted that if leadership is gotten right within the university system, it positively impacts the community and the nation at large."If you get it right in the university, you will get it right in the community, in the larger society," Opara asserted.
He stressed the critical importance of mentoring, noting that leaders often mentor people they do not even know, including students aspiring to be Vice-Chancellors or politicians."It is critical that we, as leaders, must live right because there are people who are looking up to you and are aspiring to be like you," the former Deputy Speaker advised.
Hon. Opara publicly commended Prof. Adias for his integrity, recalling a past instance where Adias stood his ground to prevent anarchy and ensure stable leadership in the university system.
He praised the university for its seamless transition in leadership over the years, calling it a testament to the institution’s strong spirit and stability.
The Chief Host and Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, welcomed the dignitaries and emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the institution and its graduates.In his remarks, Prof. Zeb-Obipi stated, "The RSU Spirit is one of resilience and progressive growth, and this mentoring series is the bridge that connects our history with our future."
He noted that for the university to maintain its legacy, the wisdom of the alumni must be intentionally transferred to the younger generation.
Speaking to newsmen after the event, Prof. Zeb-Obipi acknowledged that while alumni have played a significant role in development, there is still room for improvement."
We expect increased participation from alumni in mentorship, legacy projects, networking, and community engagement," the Vice Chancellor said.
He urged graduates who have not yet identified with the university to utilize the newly created engagement platforms to contribute to their alma mater.
Also speaking, the Director of Alumni Relations, Prof. Justin Gabriel, highlighted the strategic importance of the event’s theme."
We selected this theme because we understand that buildings may age, but the spirit of leadership and the culture of excellence must be rejuvenated through mentorship," Prof. Gabriel said.
He assured that the Directorate is committed to creating sustainable avenues for students to tap into the wealth of experience possessed by the alumni.
In her solidarity message, the Alumni President, Lady Dr. Berezi Kimia Perekebina, pledged the association's unalloyed support to the university management."The Alumni Association stands as a solid pillar behind this administration, ready to champion the RSU spirit in all sectors of the economy," Lady Dr. Berezi stated.
She encouraged fellow alumni to see themselves as ambassadors of the RSU brand, ensuring that the legacy of leadership remains unbroken.
The event concluded with a consensus that protecting the RSU spirit requires a maintained focus on teaching, research, and community service to keep the institution as a leader in Nigeria and beyond.
By: Destiny Tamunoala Emmanuel
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