By Foster Akpore
The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Professor Duke Okoro, has praised the publication of The Life, Ideas and Contributions of Chief Demas Akpore, describing the book as an important record of a life that left an enduring mark on Bendel State and Nigeria.
Professor Okoro made the remarks on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, when copies of the book were presented to the institution by Foster Akpore on behalf of the Ejiro & Otive Igbuzor Foundation, as part of the Foundation’s ongoing statewide book donation exercise.
“Putting together the life, ideas and contributions of Chief Demas Akpore cannot be overemphasised,” the Rector said. “His name is a household name, and his contributions to the development of Bendel State and Nigeria at large are well documented.”
He highlighted the value of having Chief Akpore’s achievements compiled in a single volume. “To have a compendium of all his contributions put together in a book like this is significant,” Professor Okoro added. “The simplest thing I can do is to commend the efforts of the writers, editors and the publisher.”
Noting the Polytechnic’s longstanding recognition of the late statesman, the Rector pointed out that facilities within the institution had already been named in Chief Akpore’s honour. “As a Polytechnic, we have actually pre-empted this. Producing a book like this only complements what institutions like ours have already done,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader meaning of legacy, Professor Okoro emphasized the lasting impact of service and character. “Trust me, he will always be celebrated. When you are gone, that is when people truly know your value,” he said.
Also present at the event was the Polytechnic Registrar, Chief Christine Aluyi, who commended the Foundation for sustaining the book donation exercise across Delta State and for prioritising the documentation of indigenous leadership history.
Receiving the books on behalf of the Polytechnic, the Librarian, Professor Edwin Achugbue, recalled that the institution had earlier launched copies of the book on December 12, 2025, during the 18th Chief Demas Akpore Memorial Lecture. He said the donation would further strengthen the Polytechnic’s library holdings and support teaching, research, and historical studies.
Also present at the presentation were Mr. Donald Emayomi, Coordinator of Public Administration department; and Success Okuchemiya, Personal Assistant to the Rector, who joined in commending the Ejiro & Otive Igbuzor Foundation for sustaining the book donation initiative across Delta State.
The Ejiro & Otive Igbuzor Foundation has been distributing copies of the book to tertiary institutions across Delta State in phases, reflecting its commitment to promoting knowledge, ethical leadership, and the preservation of history.