The Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has inaugurated an RSU Children’s Parliament and a University Student/Pupil Choir as part of efforts to promote inclusion, leadership development and talent discovery among children within the university community.
The Vice-Chancellor announced the initiatives during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge. During the event, he also administered the 2026 Children’s Day Pledge to children drawn from the RSU Staff School, International Secondary School (ISS), the University Women Association Educational Centre and staff children from other schools within Port Harcourt
To constitute the leadership of the Children’s Parliament, representatives were nominated from the three schools, along with a representative for staff children from other schools. Anita Ihugba Wome of the International Secondary School emerged as Speaker, while Rejoice Amanyie of the Staff School was elected Deputy Speaker. Abinye Jason of the UWA Educational Centre was selected as Clerk and Cherish Izeoma of Compass International School became a member representative.
Inaugurating the Parliament, the Vice-Chancellor said the initiative would provide children with a platform to express their views and contribute ideas on issues affecting them within the university community. He noted that it was designed to build confidence, leadership skills and active participation among children.
The Vice-Chancellor congratulated the newly appointed leaders and stated that they would serve for one year, after which new officers would be inaugurated at the next Children’s Day celebration. He also approved a grant of one hundred thousand naira for the House Leaders and directed the Acting Director of Corporate Affairs to finalize arrangements for the commencement of sittings and the provision of parliamentary regalia.
Professor Zeb-Obipi also formally announced the commencement of the University Student/Pupil Choir, an initiative previously introduced during the 2026 Easter Hymnal Evening. The choir, which will perform at major university events, will include students from the Staff School, International Secondary School and the UWA Educational Centre.
He explained that the programme is aimed at nurturing talents in music, arts and creative expression among children of staff and other members of the university community.
Speaking on the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” the Vice-Chancellor described children as the future of the nation and emphasized the need to intentionally protect, educate and empower every child, regardless of social background or physical ability.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to child development through improved access to educational support, libraries, laboratories and ICT facilities during holidays. He also encouraged school administrators to make use of the university’s ICT Innovation Hub for hands-on digital training.
Professor Zeb-Obipi urged the children to dream boldly, embrace learning, practice inclusion and uphold strong moral values. He also commended parents and university staff for their sacrifices in raising responsible families and building a better society.
He further appreciated the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for the implementation of the harmonized minimum wage for university staff, noting that improved welfare would positively influence family stability and child development.
Earlier, the President of the Rivers State University Women Association, Dr. Victoria Ayah Zeb-Obipi, described the Children’s Day theme as a call for collective responsibility in protecting, including and empowering every Nigerian child.
She emphasized the importance of quality education, healthcare, moral upbringing and equal opportunities for children regardless of tribe, religion, disability or economic background. She also called on parents, teachers and stakeholders to work together in raising responsible and morally sound children.
Dr. Zeb-Obipi reaffirmed the association’s commitment to nurturing children who are academically strong, morally disciplined, emotionally stable and globally competitive, noting that investment in children remains essential to national development and social stability.
Delivering a sermon titled “Little Hands in God’s Hand,” Rev. Emmanuel Awortu emphasized love, inclusion and proper guidance for children.
He referenced the biblical account in which Jesus welcomed children despite opposition from his disciples, highlighting that children should never be seen as distractions.
He stressed that every child is valuable and not an accident of nature, urging parents, schools, churches, and society to create supportive environments that enable children to thrive. He also cautioned against discrimination of any kind and encouraged parents to serve as positive role models in order to secure a better future for their children.
The event featured the cutting of the Children’s Day cake and performances by children from the three schools.
