Rivers State University (RSU) has commissioned a 120-capacity Chemistry Laboratory at its Etche Campus to improve practical learning, research, and academic development.
The facility was inaugurated on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 15th Governing Council, Honourable Okey Wali, SAN.
Wali said the project followed an assessment of infrastructure across the university’s campuses, which revealed the poor condition of the laboratory building.
He explained that the Governing Council subsequently constituted a joint committee with the university management to oversee its renovation and completion.
The Pro-Chancellor reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to developing the Etche Campus, assuring the community that more infrastructure projects would be delivered.
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He noted that Chemistry was prioritised because of its importance to teaching and research, adding that plans were underway to establish Physics and Biology laboratories.
Wali also commended the Vice-Chancellor, members of the Governing Council, university management and the Etche traditional leadership for their contributions to the project.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, acknowledged the efforts of previous university administrations in initiating the project and commended the current Governing Council for ensuring its completion despite funding challenges.
He said the proposed Physics and Biology laboratories would save students the cost and time of travelling to the university’s main campus in Port Harcourt for practical sessions.
Zeb-Obipi urged staff and students to maintain the facility and ensure its proper utilisation.
Earlier, the Head of Campus, Professor M. J. Ayotamuno, described the project as a major milestone, noting that it was the first Chemistry Laboratory established at any of the university’s three satellite campuses.
He said the facility would support agricultural research, including soil analysis, water quality testing and food evaluation.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Council Committee on the project, Engineer Soibiton Isokariari, said additional facilities, including a fume cupboard, borehole and solar power system, were provided within the approved budget.
The Acting Director of Physical Planning, Engineer Captain Gospel Otto, disclosed that the laboratory is powered by a 12-kilovolt-ampere solar system.
