The Niger Delta University (NDU), Wilberforce Island, played host to the 63rd National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), bringing together the Association's National Executive members and Branch Chairmen from across the country for a two-day meeting held from 8th to 9th July, 2026.
The meeting, hosted by the NAAT NDU Branch, commenced with a welcome address by the Branch Chairman, Comrade Enaizigha Waidi, who warmly received delegates and expressed appreciation to the national leadership and participants for honouring the University with the hosting rights.
Declaring the meeting open, the Vice Chancellor of Niger Delta University, Professor Allen A. Agih, welcomed delegates to the University and thanked the National Association of Academic Technologists for selecting NDU as the venue for its 63rd NEC Meeting.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the University, which recently marked its 26th anniversary, has witnessed remarkable growth, expanding to 14 faculties and offering 71 academic programmes, while continuing to strengthen its reputation as one of Nigeria's leading public universities.
Professor Agih reaffirmed the University's commitment to the welfare and professional development of Academic Technologists. He disclosed that the University Management had approved the progression of qualified members to CONTISS 15, while assuring staff of continued support for training, conferences and other capacity-building initiatives.
He also commended members of NAAT for their invaluable contributions to the University's academic and technical advancement, particularly their role in the successful 100 percent accreditation of programmes by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Speaking on student-centred service delivery, the Vice Chancellor urged members of staff to always treat students with dignity, respect and professionalism, describing them as the University's "number one customers." He cited the example of a Nursing graduate of the University, now based in the United States, whose donation of equipment to the institution reflects the lasting impact of providing students with quality learning experiences and positive institutional support.
Professor Agih further expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Education Trust Fund (BYSETF) for sponsoring the meeting and thanked the National leadership of NAAT for the confidence reposed in Niger Delta University. He expressed the University's readiness to host future meetings and activities of the Association.
In his remarks, the National President of NAAT, Hon. Ibeji Nwokoma, commended Niger Delta University for its warm hospitality and the conducive environment provided for the successful conduct of the meeting.
Dignitaries at the opening ceremony included the Paramount Ruler of Ogobiri Kingdom, His Royal Highness Samuel Yekwe, members of the National Executive Council of NAAT, Branch Chairmen and delegates from tertiary institutions across the country.
Following the opening ceremony, the Association proceeded into its 63rd National Executive Council Meeting, where delegates deliberated on matters relating to the welfare of Academic Technologists, the advancement of the profession, and issues affecting the Nigerian university system.
