Celebrating Impact: Prof. Akpofure Launches Memoir as He Exits Seat as FUPRE VC
By Wilson Macaulay
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, officially concluded his distinguished tenure on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, with the launch of his memoir titled Transforming Vision to Reality: The Memoirs of a Vice Chancellor. This event marked the grand finale of a week-long series of activities celebrating his impactful leadership from 2020 to 2025.
The ceremony took place at the Jubilee Retreat and Conference Centre, by Okorodudu Motors, and was chaired by Chief Brodricks Arigbodi, represented by Hon. Onoriode Arigbodi. In his goodwill message, Hon. Arigbodi expressed gratitude to God for granting Prof. Akpofure the grace to successfully serve during the challenging COVID-19 period.
In her welcome address, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Doris Ogeleka, commended Prof. Akpofure for his tireless work ethics and exceptional leadership. She described him as a workaholic whose open-door policy fostered remarkable growth in both academics and infrastructure. Prof. Ogeleka revealed that the outgoing VC authored twelve books—three of which were written during his tenure—stating that only those ready to make sacrifices could fill his shoes.
The University Orator introduced the book reviewer, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, Dean of Postgraduate Studies at Delta State University, Abraka. Prof. Awhefeada praised the memoir as an inspiring and insightful narrative chronicling the author’s journey from FUPRE’s inception to its transformation under his leadership. He noted that Transforming Vision to Reality comprises 16 compelling chapters, beginning with the author’s discovery of the institution on NTA News and culminating in his riseIn his brief remarks, the outgoing VC expressed gratitude to God, the Governing Council, staff, students, and partners for their support throughout his tenure. He dedicated the successes recorded during his administration to the collective efforts of the FUPRE community. as the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Awhefeada highlighted the visionary and strategic thinking Prof. Akpofure brought to the university, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. He described the memoir as a legacy of five years of impactful service, dedicated to Prof. Akpofure’s wife, children, and family.
The Chairman of the occasion during the Unveiling of the book used that opportunity to launch the book with
with 5 million Naira while others followed.
Mrs Mercy Akpofure the wife of the Vice Chancellor appreciated all for their laudable contributions to the success of the event.
In his brief remarks, the outgoing VC expressed gratitude to God, the Governing Council, staff, students, and partners for their support throughout his tenure. He dedicated the successes recorded during his administration to the collective efforts of the FUPRE community.
As the curtain closes on this chapter, there is a resounding sense of pride, gratitude, and celebration for a man who did not just lead but transformed a vision into reality.
Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh exits the stage not just as a former Vice Chancellor, but as an author, trailblazer, and national asset whose legacy will serve as a guiding light for generations to come
